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Electrical Engineer’s Hourly Wage

February 01, 2023 · 3 min read

Electrical engineers are experts in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of electrical systems, components, and products. They provide solutions for a wide range of applications, such as power production, communications, transportation, and manufacturing, using the concepts of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic. Electrical engineers employ their expertise in mathematics, physics, and computer science to tackle challenging issues. They often hold a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a closely related discipline.

By developing and enhancing the technologies that are fundamental to our everyday lives, electrical engineers play a significant role in influencing the future. Several industries, including those in energy, healthcare, transportation, and entertainment, may be impacted by their work. Power production and distribution, control systems, telecommunications, and digital signal processing are some specialized subfields of electrical engineering.

The hourly wage of an electrical engineer can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in the United States, the median hourly wage for electrical engineers was $47.67 as of May 2020. However, electrical engineers working in certain industries or regions may earn significantly more or less than the median wage.

It is also important to note that electrical engineers may work in a variety of settings, including private companies, government agencies, and universities. Some electrical engineers may also be paid on a salaried basis rather than an hourly basis, in which case their total compensation would include benefits and other forms of compensation in addition to their base salary.


The hourly wage for electrical engineers can vary depending on several factors, including:

  • Experience: Electrical engineers with more experience typically earn higher wages. Those with advanced degrees or certifications may also have a higher earning potential.
  • Industry: Electrical engineers working in industries such as aerospace, defense, and energy may have a higher hourly wage compared to those working in other industries.
  • Location: Wages for electrical engineers can vary greatly by region. Engineers in urban areas with a high cost of living may earn more than those in rural areas with a lower cost of living.
  • Company size: Electrical engineers working for large, well-established companies may have a higher earning potential compared to those working for smaller companies.
  • Union membership: Electrical engineers who are members of a union may earn higher wages compared to those who are not.

In addition to their hourly wage, electrical engineers may also receive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. It is important for electrical engineers to consider all aspects of their compensation, including benefits and long-term earning potential, when evaluating job offers and determining their overall earning potential.


The hourly wage for electrical engineers can vary based on the industry they work in. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in the United States, the median hourly wage for electrical engineers in some industries as of May 2020 are:

  • Aerospace and Defense: $60.86
  • Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing: $50.61
  • Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services: $48.47
  • Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences: $45.68
  • Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution: $43.76
  • Navigation, Measurement, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing: $41.65
  • Construction: $40.66

The hourly wage for electrical engineers can vary based on location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in the United States, the median hourly wage for electrical engineers in some states as of May 2020 are:

  • California: $58.54
  • Virginia: $56.69
  • Texas: $54.76
  • Massachusetts: $54.71
  • Colorado: $54.14
  • Maryland: $53.56
  • Illinois: $53.01
  • Washington: $52.53
  • New York: $52.29
  • Pennsylvania: $51.93
by Liza Sushko

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