Engineering Manager Salary in North Carolina
Based on 7K+ workers in North Carolina
Median Annual Salary (NC)
$167,840
$80.69/hr
vs National Average
$166,076
+1.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$122K – $231K
7K employed in North Carolina
The average Engineering Manager salary in North Carolina sits at a healthy $167,840 per year, placing it 1% above the national average. This figure, derived from data on 6,960 professionals in the state, represents the midpoint of earnings, with actual salaries typically falling between $121,900 and $231,350 annually. Understanding this median provides a solid benchmark for compensation expectations in the region.
Several elements influence an Engineering Manager salary in North Carolina. Beyond the median, factors such as years of experience, specific industry (e.g., tech, manufacturing, automotive), the size and profitability of the employing company, and geographic location within the state (major metropolitan areas often pay more) all contribute to the salary range. Demand for specialized engineering skills also plays a significant role in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Engineering Manager in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $121,900 |
| 25th percentile | $137,210 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $167,840 |
| 75th percentile | $201,230 |
| 90th percentile | $231,350 |
Top-Paying Industries for Engineering Manager (U.S.)
Which industries pay Engineering Managers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Engineering Managers in North Carolina tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction | $220,260 | 2K |
| Information | $206,790 | 3K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $192,990 | 3K |
| Retail Trade | $191,820 | 160 |
| Finance and Insurance | $182,680 | 760 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Engineering Manager in North Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (North Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $136,430 |
| 2023 | $152,360 |
| 2024 | $163,430 |
| 2025 | $167,840 |
| 2026 (projected) | $172,369 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | North Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $136,430 | $146,614 |
| 2023 | $152,360 | $154,625 |
| 2024 | $163,430 | $159,404 |
| 2025 | $167,840 | $166,076 |
| 2026 (projected) | $172,369 | $170,557 |
Engineering Manager Salary by Experience Level in North Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $137,210 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $167,840 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $201,230 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $231,350 |
Engineering Manager Salary in Other States
Related Engineering Manager Salaries in North Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in North Carolina compare to Engineering Manager ($167,840 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Engineering Manager | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nuclear Engineer in NC | $131,850 | -21.4% | $63.39/hr |
| Aerospace Engineer in NC | $122,930 | -26.8% | $59.10/hr |
| Chemical Engineer in NC | $117,410 | -30.0% | $56.45/hr |
| Electrical Engineer in NC | $110,130 | -34.4% | $52.95/hr |
| Materials Engineer in NC | $104,240 | -37.9% | $50.12/hr |
| Civil Engineer in NC | $100,730 | -40.0% | $48.43/hr |
| Mechanical Engineer in NC | $100,720 | -40.0% | $48.42/hr |
| Environmental Engineer in NC | $99,440 | -40.8% | $47.81/hr |
| Industrial Engineer in NC | $99,310 | -40.8% | $47.75/hr |
| Biomedical Engineer in NC | $94,790 | -43.5% | $45.57/hr |
| Psychiatrist in NC | $168,880 | +0.6% | $81.19/hr |
| Financial Manager in NC | $166,780 | -0.6% | $80.18/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Engineering Manager make in North Carolina?
- The median salary for an Engineering Manager in North Carolina is $167,840 per year, which is approximately $81 per hour. Most Engineering Managers in the state earn between $121,900 and $231,350 annually.
What is the salary range for Engineering Managers in North Carolina compared to the national average?
- The typical salary range for Engineering Managers in North Carolina falls between $121,900 and $231,350 per year. This is slightly higher than the national average, with salaries in North Carolina being about 1.1% more.
How many Engineering Managers are employed in North Carolina?
- There are approximately 6,960 Engineering Managers currently employed in North Carolina. This indicates a substantial market for this role within the state.
Is the salary for an Engineering Manager in North Carolina competitive?
- Yes, the median salary of $167,840 per year is competitive, especially considering it is 1.1% above the national average. The salary range of $121,900 to $231,350 also suggests strong earning potential for experienced professionals.