Petroleum Engineers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 18,970 petroleum engineers, and they earn a median of $141,280/year. The range runs from $79K to $229K. Alaska pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level petroleum engineers start around $79K. The gap between that and the median ($141K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $229K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $201K | 310 |
| Utah | $167K | 380 |
| Tennessee | $164K | 50 |
| Texas | $153K | 10,640 |
| Wyoming | $153K | 320 |
| California | $148K | 1,190 |
| Oklahoma | $142K | 1,290 |
| New Jersey | $141K | 30 |
| Louisiana | $135K | 920 |
| Michigan | $131K | 80 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a petroleum engineers make?▼
The median petroleum engineers salary in the United States is $141,280 per year ($68/hour). Entry-level positions start around $78,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $228,790.
What education do you need to become a petroleum engineers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for petroleum engineers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for petroleum engineers.
What are the highest paying states for petroleum engineers?▼
The highest paying states for petroleum engineers are Alaska ($200,750), Utah ($166,580), Tennessee ($164,240), Texas ($153,200), Wyoming ($152,770). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.