In this article, we will look at the 15 highest paying countries for engineers. We have also covered the latest trends in engineering and discussed some of the highest paying companies for engineers. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to the 5 Highest Paying Countries for Engineers.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipated the addition of nearly 140,000 engineering jobs between 2016 and 2026. Of those 140,000 jobs, civil engineering constituted about 23% of new opportunities. Mechanical and industrial engineering followed closely as they jointly contributed 36% of the anticipated job growth.
Today, engineers are known for their meaningful contributions across various industries which is why they often command high annual salaries. Moreover, while software engineers have one of the most in-demand jobs for the future, machine learning engineers have the most needed jobs in America in 2023. Owing to the rising demand of AI and automation experts, machine learning engineering is also among the best engineering for 2025.
Highest Paying Companies for Engineers
Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA), Shell Plc (NYSE:SHEL) and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) are some of the best companies that pay the highest salaries to engineers.
Not only Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) pays lucrative salaries to its engineers, it also trains its engineers for contributing to the global transition to sustainable energy. In 2022 alone, Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) received a staggering 3.6 million job applications worldwide. Moreover, Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA)’s US workforce comprises 67% underrepresented groups, which also highlights their dedication to inclusivity. Over the past decade, Tesla has generated more than 127,000 jobs with a 29,000+ increase in employee count year-over-year. Beginning on day one, Tesla employees enjoy comprehensive benefits from medical coverage to stock grants. In fact, employees are often encouraged to openly discuss wages, benefits, and raise concerns through the 24/7 Integrity Line to improve transparency. It is one of the best companies for engineers. Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) is also one of the biggest green tech companies in the world.
Similarly, Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) also stands out with a strong salary and benefits package for its engineers and other employees. In fact, in 2015, the mean pay across roles was $137,000. At Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) the opportunity to exert influence is also substantial that often results in higher employee satisfaction. According to indeed.com, the average yearly salary of a senior software engineer at Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) is $159,839.
On the other hand, following its second quarter 2022 record profits of $11.5 billion, Shell Plc (NYSE:SHEL) gave an 8% salary bonus to nearly all 82,000 of its employees. While bonuses are generally a once in a while compensation, Shell Plc (NYSE:SHEL) generally has very high salaries for its engineers. For example, the estimated salary of a Process Control Engineer at Shell Plc (NYSE:SHEL) is $137,000, accordingly to Glassdoor.
Engineering Trends to Watch Out for in 2023
Firstly, the U.S. Congress has enacted measures to encourage domestic infrastructure investment, that has led to a surge in nonresidential and commercial sector activities in the U.S. However, global factors like rising interest rates, labor shortages, and increased raw material costs are expected to dampen the residential market. Consequently, companies in the engineering and construction (E&C) industry must adapt to this dual-speed scenario by reorganizing their operations to cater to both bustling and subdued sectors.
Secondly, the aftermath of the pandemic-induced demand spike and the conflict in Ukraine have intensified supply chain disruptions for E&C companies. As a response, these firms are reevaluating their business strategies and structural setups. The focus has shifted towards meticulous supply chain management and the adoption of technological solutions to improve efficiency and mitigate disruptions.
Thirdly, the E&C sector faces workforce challenges due to the “great resignation,” hybrid work models, and a shortage of skilled labor. To address this, construction companies must embrace a two-pronged approach: first, they need to establish themselves as purpose-driven organizations; second, they should offer employees personalized career paths.
Lastly, E&C companies are embracing technology to optimize operations, reduce expenses, explore new business avenues, and bolster profits. Advanced tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D modeling, digital twins, robotics, and drones are enabling prefabrication and modular construction. Moreover, the adoption of software solutions internally is crucial, as organizational inefficiencies are identified as a primary cause of cost and scheduling overruns. In line with this trend, we have covered the an extensive article on Industries being Revolutionized by AI and Automation Technologies.
Our Methodology
To list the highest paying countries for engineers we identified the countries with the highest demand for engineers and then made a list for 20 countries with the average salaries for engineers. Of those 20, the 15 with the highest average salaries were selected and have been ranked. We acquired the data for average salaries of engineers for each country from World Salaries. The list is presented in ascending order.
Here is a list of the 15 highest paying countries for engineers.
15. Finland
Average Salary: $50,612
In Finland, engineering professions hold a prominent role in driving innovation and technological advancement. The country’s engineering sector encompasses a wide spectrum of disciplines, including mechanical, civil, electrical, and software engineering. Engineers play a pivotal role in designing sustainable infrastructure, developing cutting-edge technologies, and ensuring the efficient functioning of various industries such as telecommunications, energy, manufacturing, and automation. Finnish engineers are also known for their high-level expertise and commitment to environmental sustainability.
14. Belgium
Average Salary: $55,795
There is a pressing need for skilled electrical engineers in Belgium, driven by the energy transition and rapid technological developments in the recent years. The demand for 15,000 new engineers within five years also underscores the importance of engineering in Belgium. By addressing the current educational gaps and collaborating with industry, aspiring engineers can play a pivotal role in shaping Belgium’s future, while enjoying a dynamic and impactful career in a vital sector with promising growth prospects. Belgium is one of the highest paying countries for engineers.
13. France
Average Salary: $57,185
Renowned for rigorous programs, French engineering promotes creative problem-solving through practical applications and business training. The country has a rich history of groundbreaking innovations, from the TGV to the Eurotunnel. Moreover, since most engineers are required to learn French to work, the fluency in French enhances cross-cultural communication. Additionally, the beauty lies in its captivating culture and countless experiences which makes it one of the top countries for engineering jobs.
12. Netherlands
Average Salary: $58,287
The Netherlands stands out as a prime destination for engineers due to its world-class universities, innovative industries, strong economy, and excellent work-life balance. With a booming tech ecosystem, English-taught programs, and a global outlook, the country promises a dynamic environment, making it one of the best countries in Europe for engineering.
11. Norway
Average Salary: $60,206
As an engineer in Norway, one is exposed to not only innovation-driven opportunities, but also breathtaking landscapes, and a high quality of life, that can foster personal growth and professional success. Most engineers with severe shortages in Norway are needed in mechanics & mechanical design, electricity (high voltage), steel structures, electronics/automation/instrumentation and piping for the Oil & Gas. Norway is also one of the highest paying countries for nurses.
10. Luxembourg
Average Salary: $60,327
Luxembourg is known as the country with highest minimum wage in the world. Moreover, pursuing engineering in Luxembourg offers a combination of cutting-edge research, a strategic location in Europe, and a diverse, cosmopolitan environment. With a focus on innovation and advanced technologies, Luxembourg provides a unique platform for engineering students to thrive in a globalized and forward-looking professional landscape.
9. Austria
Average Salary: $61,000
Austria is a popular choice for pursuing an engineering degree owing to its top-notch education, research opportunities and a rich engineering tradition. Austria has a severe shortage of power engineers and engineers for agricultural machinery. It is also one of the countries with the highest standard of living.
8. Australia
Average Salary: $64,254
The shortage of engineers in Australia is a critical concern for its economic growth and development. To address this challenge, it is often recommended to raise awareness among students, particularly women, about the importance and potential of engineering through targeted campaigns and robust educational programs. The sectors such as clean energy and infrastructure in Australia offer promising career prospects with competitive salaries. Australia is also one the best countries for engineers to immigrate to.
7. Germany
Average Salary: $65,000
Germany offers world-renowned engineering education, a hub for technological innovation, and a strong industrial base. Its engineering programs provide practical skills, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a global network. Graduates benefit from Germany’s engineering reputation, competitive job market, and quality of life, making it one of the highest paying countries for engineers.
6. Italy
Average Salary: $66,109
Becoming an engineer in Italy offers the opportunity to contribute to monumental projects like Italy’s record-breaking Messina Strait bridge, which showcases its engineers’ potential to connect regions and transform economies. Engineers in Italy are known to drive innovation, solve complex challenges, and shape a sustainable future. Italy is one of the European countries pay engineers the highest salaries.
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Disclosure: None. 15 Highest Paying Countries for Engineers is originally published on Insider Monkey.
