Top 5 Highest Paying Jobs in Engineering

The field of engineering is expanding quickly. It requires skilled workers to apply principles based in scientific, mathematical, technological, and social methodologies to design, develop, construct, and operate structures, devices, systems, and processes. Skilled engineers find numerous opportunities for rewarding employment in many industries.

Competition for engineering jobs can be quite competitive, and as with most careers, candidates who complete formal education, gain work experience and display skill are often preferred over individuals with less education, experience, and skill. Here are the Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering jobs US.

1. Chemical Engineers

Chemical Engineers research, design, and troubleshoot the equipment and production processes for large scale manufacturing. They apply the engineering principles of physics, chemistry, and biology to develop, identify, and evaluate the safest and most efficient means of producing food, drugs, chemicals, fuel, and other materials. Chemical Engineers also research and determine the costs of manufacturing processes as well as the affects they have on the environment without compromising quality and safety. Chemical Engineers must complete studies within a bachelor level chemical or biomolecular engineering program and gain work experience before advancing to careers earning salaries of $90,300 to $139,670 yearly.

2. Electrical Engineers

Electrical Engineers devise new and improved electronics, components, and equipment. They also test and resolve problems with existing electronics. Electrical Engineers work with a large number of products and systems from lighting and wiring within structures to cars, robots, generators, and navigation systems to ensure performance and resolve issues. They also design and assemble new products, test products to ensure safety, and oversee the installation of components. Many create technical drawings and specifications indicating instructions and proper operation. Training to become an Electrical Engineer requires an associates or bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Earnings for Electrical Engineers range from $84,500 to $128,610 annually.

3. Biomedical Engineers

Biomedical Engineers focus upon improving the quality, efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of medical systems and products. They analyze, design, and resolve problems with biology and medicine. Biomedical Engineers create artificial organs, devices, and machines used to replace body parts and diagnose medical issues. They also conduct research to advance medicine, develop methods to assure product quality, and test drug therapies using computer simulations. Biomedical Engineers typically complete a bachelor or master’s degree in biomedical engineering in order to advance to positions earning salaries of $81,540 to $126,990 annually.

4. Materials Engineers

Materials engineers develop, design, process, and test materials to create new materials and products. Materials Engineers use metals, composites, semiconductors, plastics, and other substances which meet requirements based upon mechanical, chemical, and electrical standards. They also research, test, create, and evaluate the economic factors and standards involved in designing new products and developing materials processes. Additionally, Materials Engineers provide administrative and supervisory support by overseeing groups of technologists, scientists, technicians, and other engineers, providing proposals, completing reports, creating budgets, evaluating new projects, and preparing budgets. Most specialize in ceramic, composites, metallurgical, plastics, or semiconductor processing engineering fields. Materials Engineers often complete studies within bachelors or masters level materials science or materials engineering programs to qualify for employment. Earnings for most Materials Engineers range from $83,120 to $126,800 annually.

5. Environmental Engineers

Environmental Engineers apply and develop solutions to a number of environmental issues and problems by using the principles of engineering, biology, chemistry, and soil science. Environmental Engineers address global issues, like climate change, sustainability, and drinking water safety, as well as public health issues and means of controlling pollution. Environmental Engineers develop means of improving environmental protection, waste disposal, and recycling programs. They also create, evaluate, and update reports based on environmental investigations and environmental improvement programs. Environmental Engineers also oversee the standard operating procedures for legal plans, legal actions, environmental remediation programs, and permits. Additionally, they inspect industrial and municipal facilities to be certain environmental regulations and laws are followed as well as respond to hazardous waste and contaminated sites. Training to become an Environmental Engineer requires a bachelors degree based in environmental engineering and work experience. Some candidates may complete studies within a related field like civil, chemical, or mechanical engineering and gain additional on the job training. Environmental Engineers salaries range from $78,740 to $119,060 yearly.