▼8%
$104,250
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$88k
MEDIAN
$104k
90%
$135k
The average salary for a Principal Mechanical Engineer is $104,250 in 2025
Base Salary
$88k - $135k
Bonus
$981 - $3k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $2k
Total Pay
$88k - $135k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Mechanical Engineers?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Mechanical Engineer
Medical
98%
Dental
98%
Vision
95%
None
2%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Mechanical Engineers
Male
88.9%
Female
11.1%
This data is based on 36 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Mechanical Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Mechanical Engineers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Mechanical Engineer is $135k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Mechanical Engineers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Mechanical Engineer is $88k / 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.