How to Become a Electrical Engineers in Washington
Electrical Engineers in Washington earn a median salary of $130,730/year, which is 17% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a electrical engineers takes home approximately $6,930/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a electrical engineers can afford in Washington
Becoming a electrical engineers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Electrical Engineers positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many electrical engineers positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for electrical engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 10,010 electrical engineers. The highest concentrations are in Kennewick-Richland and Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue.
Electrical Engineers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kennewick-Richland | $138K | $66.53/hr | 490 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $135K | $65.14/hr | 6,580 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $129K | $61.85/hr | 70 |
| Longview-Kelso | $128K | $61.74/hr | 40 |
| Yakima | $120K | $57.5/hr | 60 |
| Walla Walla | $118K | $56.74/hr | 40 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $116K | $55.75/hr | 340 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $107K | $51.49/hr | 240 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $107K | $51.29/hr | 70 |
| Bellingham | $103K | $49.46/hr | 170 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $86K | $41.11/hr | 140 |
Electrical Engineers salary range in Washington
Electrical Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a electrical engineers make in Washington?▼
The median electrical engineers salary in Washington is $130,730 per year ($62.85/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $111,910. Salaries range from $80,980 to $180,880.
What are the requirements to become a electrical engineers in Washington?▼
Electrical Engineers positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a electrical engineers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $130,730, a electrical engineers in Washington would take home approximately $8,342/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 16.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for electrical engineers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for electrical engineers in Washington are Kennewick-Richland ($138,370), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($135,480), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($128,640). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for electrical engineers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means electrical engineers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.