Petroleum Engineers in Washington
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Washington | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,660 | $141,280 | -8.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #13 of 23 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 170 jobs | 18,970 jobs | 0.9% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Washington
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $104,210 | $50.10 |
| 25th Percentile | $122,350 | $58.82 |
| Median | $129,660 | $62.34 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,870 | $82.15 |
| 90th Percentile | $198,850 | $95.60 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Petroleum Engineers in Washington in 2026?
With a median salary of $129,660 in Washington and a 2014–2024 salary trend of -0.6%, petroleum engineers remain an established career option.
How can petroleum engineers increase their salary in Washington?
Petroleum Engineers in Washington can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Washington currently ranks #13 out of 23 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Petroleum Engineers in Washington?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Credit Intermediation and Related Activities | $197,580 |
| Credit Intermediation and Related Activities | $197,580 |
| Credit Intermediation and Related Activities (5221 and 5223 only) | $197,570 |
How are Petroleum Engineers paid in Washington compared to the national average?
The median salary for Petroleum Engineers in Washington is $129,660, which is 8.2% below the national median of $141,280.