Petroleum Engineer Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $206,290 | |
| Utah | $172,840 | |
| Colorado | $172,190 | |
| Texas | $164,860 | |
| Oklahoma | $153,020 | |
| California | $143,590 | |
| Louisiana | $139,640 | |
| Washington | $134,800 | |
| National Median | $144,910 |
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the earth's surface.
Meet the education requirement
Most petroleum engineers enter the field with bachelor's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Professional Engineer (PE) license
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $81,440 and rises toward $253,200 with experience.
Petroleum Engineer salary: common questions
How much does a Petroleum Engineer make an hour?
The median hourly wage for petroleum engineers is $69.67, which works out to about $144,910 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays petroleum engineers the most?
Alaska has the highest median pay for petroleum engineers at $206,290 per year — 42% above the national median of $144,910.
What is the salary range for petroleum engineers?
Most petroleum engineers earn between $81,440 and $253,200 per year. The middle 50% earn $106,270 to $197,920, with a median of $144,910.
Is becoming a Petroleum Engineer a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 2% (slower than average), and the role typically requires bachelor's degree. With a median wage of $144,910 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.