Petroleum Engineer Salary in California
Based on 1K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$143,590
$69.034/hr
vs National Average
$133,391
+7.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$62K – $207K
1K employed in California
Petroleum engineer salary in California averages $143,590 per year, positioning the state as a competitive market for this specialized profession. With approximately 1,060 petroleum engineers currently employed across California, the median compensation sits 8% above the national average, reflecting the state's significant oil and gas industry presence and the high cost of living in major employment centers.
Petroleum engineer salary in California varies considerably based on experience level, specific employer, and work location within the state. Entry-level positions start near $61,780 annually, while experienced engineers can earn up to $207,370, demonstrating substantial growth potential. Factors including years in the field, advanced certifications, specialization in offshore or unconventional extraction, and proximity to major petroleum hubs influence individual compensation packages.
Salary Distribution — Petroleum Engineer in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $61,780 |
| 25th percentile | $126,500 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $143,590 |
| 75th percentile | $171,980 |
| 90th percentile | $207,370 |
Historical Salary Trend — Petroleum Engineer in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $134,910 |
| 2023 | $134,330 |
| 2024 | $147,780 |
| 2025 | $143,590 |
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $134,910 | $115,352 |
| 2023 | $134,330 | $127,162 |
| 2024 | $147,780 | $131,270 |
| 2025 | $143,590 | $133,391 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by Experience Level in California
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Other States
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do petroleum engineers make in California?
- The median salary for petroleum engineers in California is $143,590 per year, or $69 per hour. This is 7.6% higher than the national average, making California one of the better-paying states for this profession.
What is the salary range for petroleum engineers in California?
- Petroleum engineer salaries in California range from $61,780 at the low end to $207,370 at the high end. The wide range reflects differences in experience, specialization, and employer size.
Is petroleum engineering a well-paid job in California?
- Yes, with a median salary of $143,590 annually and a 7.6% premium over the national average, petroleum engineering is a well-compensated career in California. Top earners in the field can make over $207,370 per year.
How many petroleum engineers are employed in California?
- There are approximately 1,060 petroleum engineers currently employed in California, representing a concentrated but stable workforce in the state's energy sector.