Architectural and Engineering Managers vs. General and Operations Managers: Who Earns More?
Architectural and Engineering Managers out-earn General and Operations Managers by $66K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Architectural and Engineering Managers land at $171,270 and General and Operations Managers at $105,770. The education gap is real: architectural and engineering manager programs typically require bachelor's degree, while general and operations manager programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Architectural and Engineering Managers is New Mexico ($215,120); for General and Operations Managers it's New Jersey ($173,690).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Architectural and Engineering Managers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Architectural and Engineering Managers or General and Operations Managers?
Architectural and Engineering Managers earn more nationally. The median is $171,270 for Architectural and Engineering Managers versus $105,770 for General and Operations Managers, a difference of $66K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Architectural and Engineering Managers or General and Operations Managers?
General and Operations Managers has the better 10-year outlook at 4.4% projected growth, compared to 3.8% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Architectural and Engineering Managers or General and Operations Managers?
Architectural and Engineering Managers typically requires bachelor's degree. General and Operations Managers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Architectural and Engineering Managers get paid the most?
New Mexico is the top-paying state for Architectural and Engineering Managers at $215,120/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Architectural and Engineering Managers vs. General and Operations Managers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Architectural and Engineering Managers earn $210,280 vs. $124,390 for General and Operations Managers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.