How to Become a Architectural and Engineering Managers in California
Architectural and Engineering Managers in California earn a median salary of $201,810/year, which is 20% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~7.4%. After taxes and rent, a architectural and engineering managers takes home approximately $9,868/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a architectural and engineering managers can afford in California
Becoming a architectural and engineering managers in California
Meet education requirements
Architectural and Engineering Managers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many architectural and engineering managers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for architectural and engineering managerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 30,690 architectural and engineering managers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Architectural and Engineering Managers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $227K | $109.11/hr | 5,270 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $209K | $100.28/hr | 6,380 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $201K | $96.55/hr | 200 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $197K | $94.62/hr | 330 |
| Vallejo | $190K | $91.58/hr | 120 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $189K | $90.99/hr | 1,680 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $186K | $89.21/hr | 3,690 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $181K | $87.21/hr | 8,850 |
| Yuba City | $181K | $87.07/hr | 40 |
| Napa | $177K | $85.23/hr | 30 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $177K | $85.15/hr | 200 |
| Modesto | $175K | $84.33/hr | 120 |
| Chico | $175K | $84.28/hr | 40 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $175K | $83.99/hr | 90 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $173K | $83.39/hr | 250 |
Architectural and Engineering Managers salary range in California
Architectural and Engineering Managers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a architectural and engineering managers make in California?▼
The median architectural and engineering managers salary in California is $201,810 per year ($97.02/hr). This is 20% above the national median of $167,740. Salaries range from $132,880 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a architectural and engineering managers in California?▼
Architectural and Engineering Managers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a architectural and engineering managers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $201,810, a architectural and engineering managers in California would take home approximately $11,280/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 12.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for architectural and engineering managers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for architectural and engineering managers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($226,940), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($208,580), San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles ($200,820). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for architectural and engineering managers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.4%. On a $201,810 salary, this means roughly $14,906/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.