Electrical Engineer Salary

Electrical engineering involves the study of electronics and electricity. It covers many topics, such as telecommunications, electromagnetism, power and control systems. Electrical engineers have created and tested a wide variety of electrical products. Because electrical engineering is diverse, the duties of engineers can determine their salaries.

Electrical engineers use physics, math and computers to design systems. They should also have an understanding of circuit theory, physics and technical concepts used in the electrical field. They must also have project management skills such as scheduling and budgeting. They may also create reports and other documentation, which requires writing skills. The exact duties an electrical engineer is required to perform will determine their electrical engineer salary. Many electrical engineers focus on a specialty, such as manufacturing or systems.

An electrical engineer's salary can vary depending on location and industry. Salaries range anywhere from $54,000 to more than $128,000 annually. The average is around $85,000. There are close to 160,000 electrical engineers in the United States, with most (33,500) working in the engineering services industry. However, the highest-paying industry is the motion picture industry, with an average electrical engineer salary of nearly $115,000. Most electrical engineers work in California (more than 18,000), primarily due to the motion picture industry. Texas has nearly 11,000 electrical engineers. The average electrical engineer salary in these states is above $90,000. However, the top-paying states are Massachusetts and Alaska, with average annual salaries exceeding $102,000.

An electrical engineer salary can also vary based on experience and education level. A bachelor's degree is generally the minimum requirement to work as an electrical engineer, although those with an associate's degree in electronics, electrical technology or computer programming can sometimes find work as a technician. However, these jobs are hard to find. Those who want to work in the academic field or expand their knowledge of engineering research and development may move on to graduate degree programs. Master's or doctorate degrees are available in electrical engineering. Having one of these degrees can increase an electrical engineer salary by $10,000 or more annually. Online education is also an option for those who want to increase their electrical engineer salary. Online programs offer flexibility and the option to continue working while going to school. However, engineering is a hands-on field, so not all classes may be available online.

When determining an electrical engineer salary, experience is a main factor. A summer internship or permanent position right after graduation may pay you an entry-level wage, but that number will go up with just a few years of experience. Gaining as much knowledge as you can and learning from seasoned professionals will give you an edge. Volunteer for more complex duties. After just a few years, you can expect an electrical engineer salary to go up dramatically. After 15-20 years of experience in the field, you may be close to doubling your starting salary. It is not uncommon for professionals with many years of experience to earn $100,000 or more, with salaries in some states and industries exceeding $115,000. Top earners can make close to $130,000 annually.

Having a certification can increase an electrical engineer's salary as well. This shows employers that you are dedicated to your career and uphold the highest standards in terms of knowledge, skills and ethics.

Electrical engineering is not expected to grow much over the next decade, so the average electrical engineer salary may stay stagnant for a while. It is only expected to increase by 2 percent. This is because of international competition combined with an increase in services provided by foreign countries. Despite a huge demand for better electronics equipment, growth in electrical engineering in the United States will be limited. Therefore, the best bet for a job with a high electrical engineer salary will be as a consultant to manufacturing companies.