▲14%
$112,424
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$86k
MEDIAN
$112k
90%
$138k
The average salary for a Principal Mechanical Engineer is $112,424 in 2025
Base Salary
$86k - $138k
Bonus
$4k - $17k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $5k
Total Pay
$87k - $139k
Is Average Mid-Career Principal Mechanical Engineer Salary in Houston, Texas your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Mechanical Engineers?
▲35%
What Do Principal Mechanical Engineers Do?
Principal Mechanical Engineer Tasks
- Manage all aspects Mechanical Engineering projects from beginning phases until completion.
- Research design and make decisions based on appearance, safety, budget, and function.
- Manage time and cost to complete projects.
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Mechanical Engineer
Medical
100%
Dental
89%
Vision
78%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Mechanical Engineers
Female
50.0%
Male
50.0%
This data is based on 6 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Mechanical Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Mechanical Engineers in Houston?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Mechanical Engineer in Houston is $138k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Mechanical Engineers in Houston?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Mechanical Engineer in Houston is $86k / year
How can Principal Mechanical Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Mechanical 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 Principal Mechanical Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Mechanical Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.