▼63%
$173,941
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
25%
$113k
MEDIAN
$174k
75%
$191k
The average salary for a Chief Engineer is $173,941 in 2025
Base Salary
$113k - $191k
Total Pay
$83k - $247k
Is Average Late-Career Chief Engineer Salary in San Diego, California your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Chief Engineers?
What Do Chief Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Chief Engineer
Medical
100%
Dental
100%
Vision
100%
Gender Breakdown for Chief Engineers
Male
100.0%
This data is based on 3 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Chief Engineers
What is the highest pay for Chief Engineers in San Diego?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Chief Engineer in San Diego is $NaN / year
What is the lowest pay for Chief Engineers in San Diego?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Chief Engineer in San Diego is $NaN / year
How can Chief Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Chief Engineer is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Chief Engineer that oversees more junior Chief Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.