Salary is one factor that leads to overall satisfaction in a career.
After graduation, petroleum engineering graduates typically earn high salaries compared to the national average. Top earners make $257,693, while the bottom 20% make closer to $73,834. The median grad salary is $137,937.
Petroleum Engineering graduate salaries over time
The typical early career salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering is $79,854, and within five years of graduation, this average salary goes up to $132,513.
This chart maps the average workforce wage by years of experience:
Wage ($USD)
Wage Range Median Wage
Years of work experience
Pro tip
Still unsure if a degree in petroleum engineering is your calling? Read our comprehensive guide on choosing a career
