How to Become a Petroleum Engineers in California
Petroleum Engineers in California earn a median salary of $147,780/year, which is 5% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.7%. After taxes and rent, a petroleum engineers takes home approximately $7,078/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a petroleum engineers can afford in California
Becoming a petroleum engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Petroleum Engineers 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 petroleum engineers 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 petroleum engineerss. 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 1,190 petroleum engineers. The highest concentrations are in Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.
Petroleum Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $163K | $78.51/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $161K | $77.56/hr | 300 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $151K | $72.71/hr | 50 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $140K | $67.28/hr | 280 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $98K | $46.93/hr | 280 |
Petroleum Engineers salary range in California
Petroleum Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a petroleum engineers make in California?▼
The median petroleum engineers salary in California is $147,780 per year ($71.05/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $141,280. Salaries range from $78,510 to $219,170.
What are the requirements to become a petroleum engineers in California?▼
Petroleum Engineers 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 petroleum engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $147,780, a petroleum engineers in California would take home approximately $8,490/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 16.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for petroleum engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for petroleum engineers in California are Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($163,310), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($161,320), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($151,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for petroleum engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.7%. On a $147,780 salary, this means roughly $9,881/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.