How to Become a Petroleum Engineers in Colorado
Petroleum Engineers in Colorado earn a median salary of $172,190/year, which is 19% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a petroleum engineers takes home approximately $8,892/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a petroleum engineers can afford in Colorado
Becoming a petroleum engineers in Colorado
Meet education requirements
Petroleum Engineers positions in Colorado typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Colorado. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many petroleum engineers positions in Colorado require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Colorado licensure or certification
Colorado may require specific licensing or professional certification for petroleum engineerss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Colorado Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Colorado
Colorado employs 1,390 petroleum engineers. The highest concentrations are in Denver-Aurora-Centennial and Grand Junction.
Petroleum Engineers salary by metro area in Colorado
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial | $175K | $83.93/hr | 900 |
| Grand Junction | $162K | $77.85/hr | 50 |
| Greeley | $132K | $63.58/hr | 300 |
Petroleum Engineers salary range in Colorado
Petroleum Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a petroleum engineers make in Colorado?▼
The median petroleum engineers salary in Colorado is $172,190 per year ($82.78/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $144,910. Salaries range from $92,590 to $264,960.
What are the requirements to become a petroleum engineers in Colorado?▼
Petroleum Engineers positions in Colorado typically require Bachelor's degree. Colorado may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Colorado licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a petroleum engineers afford to live in Colorado?▼
At the median salary of $172,190, a petroleum engineers in Colorado would take home approximately $10,072/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,180/month, that's 11.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for petroleum engineers in Colorado?▼
The highest paying metro areas for petroleum engineers in Colorado are Denver-Aurora-Centennial ($174,580), Grand Junction ($161,940), Greeley ($132,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Colorado have state income tax for petroleum engineers?▼
Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $172,190 salary, this means roughly $7,576/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.