About profession
Say hello to industrial engineer

Industrial engineers solve problems in manufacturing. They make factories run smoothly and save companies money. They create systems that connect workers, machines, and materials.
They work in many industries. They help car companies build vehicles faster. They improve patient care in hospitals. They ensure products arrive on time. Their main job is to eliminate waste.
The job market for industrial engineers is growing. Companies need them now more than ever due to smart factories and new technology. Knowing your worth helps you make informed career decisions.
This newsletter covers industrial engineer salaries in 2025. It answers questions about starting pay, the best-paying states, and skills that can increase your salary. You'll learn how to compare job offers and negotiate better pay.
Average salary
Average salary for an industrial engineer in the USA
$87,500 per year (Average)
Industrial engineers can earn between $79,196 and $105,812 a year. This info comes from global salary surveys and government data.
Indeed says the average salary is $87,688 per year, based on over 1,800 salary reports. Other major platforms have an average annual income of $105,812. Some sources say the minimum average is $79,196.
The 2025 average is up 3-5% from 2024.
This growth stems from a rising demand for experts in automation and supply chain management. As companies invest more in efficiency, industrial engineers are seeing more opportunities.
Key salary insights
Salary Insights for Industrial Engineers in 2025
Average Salary: Many industrial engineers enjoy a salary between $79,000 and $106,000 per year. This range shows a high demand for experts. They help improve processes across many industries.
Salary Range: For those just starting out, entry-level positions begin around $59,468. With experience, engineers can earn up to $86,809. This range suggests great growth potential in this field.
Salary by Experience: Recent surveys in the USA reveal the following trends:
Junior industrial engineers typically earn between $59,000 and $65,000 annually.
Mid-level engineers with 3 to 7 years of experience usually make around $70,000 to $85,000.
Senior engineers with over 8 years of experience can achieve salaries of $90,000 to $120,000 or more.
75th Percentile: The best industrial engineers make more than $95,000 a year, based on government data. These professionals often find opportunities in high-tech manufacturing or specialized consulting.
Industrial engineering is a stable and rewarding career. Specialized skills in supply chain management or manufacturing engineering lead to better pay.
Numbers at a glance
Industrial engineer salary regional comparison
When it comes to an industrial engineer's salary, location plays a key role. States with many manufacturing and tech companies often offer higher pay. It's also important to consider the cost of living, as it impacts how much your paycheck can stretch.
For example, Louisiana has an average salary of $126,520. California follows with $120,960, and Hawaii is close behind at $120,150.
Let’s take a closer look at how salaries compare across different regions:
Regions | Average Salary | Salary Difference |
---|---|---|
Louisiana | $126,520 | +$39,020 (+45%) |
California | $120,960 | +$33,460 (+38%) |
Hawaii | $120,150 | +$32,650 (+37%) |
Maryland | $118,460 | +$30,960 (+35%) |
This above data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and state employment agencies.
Louisiana's petrochemical industry leads the way. California's tech and manufacturing sectors drive high wages.
Texas and Michigan offer strong opportunities. But compare carefully, as cost of living differs. $90,000 in Texas may buy more than $110,000 in California.
Growth tips
7 Friendly tips to boost your industrial engineer’s salary
Get Lean Six Sigma Certification: Certified engineers can earn 8-20% more. They also lead projects that improve processes.
Boost Your Earnings with Tech Skills: Learning Python, R, and SQL can raise your salary by 10% to 15%.
Specializing in Supply Chain Management: Supply chain experts earn 12-18% more. They also connect with traditional industrial engineering.
Pursue Advanced Degrees: A master's degree or MBA can boost salaries by 15-25%.
Enhance Project Management Skills: Earning a PMP certification boosts your profile and increases your earning potential.
Gain Experience in High-Growth Industries: Industries such as healthcare and renewable energy offer good pay for industrial engineers.
Network and Change Jobs Strategically: Changing jobs can boost your salary by 20-30%. Networking can also create new opportunities.
Science can amuse and fascinate us all, but it is engineering that changes the world.
Important FAQs for you
FAQs | Industrial engineers' salaries
1. What is the average salary for an industrial engineer in 2025?
In 2025, the average salary for an industrial engineer will range from $79,000 to $106,000 per year. Indeed reports an average salary of about $87,688. Other sources claim it can be as high as $105,812.
2. Is the industrial engineer's salary before or after taxes?
The salary figures provided are gross annual salaries, meaning they are before taxes. After they deduct federal, state, and local taxes, your take-home pay will be lower. Remember, tax rates can vary based on where you live and your income level.
3. What salary can entry-level industrial engineers expect in 2025?
Entry-level industrial engineers usually make around $59,468 a year, based on career data. Some sources say entry-level jobs can average $76,262. This amount varies based on location and company size.
4. Do industrial engineering salaries include bonuses and benefits?
Base salaries don't include bonuses, stock options, or benefits. Your total pay can be 10-20% more because of bonuses, profit-sharing, and benefits.
5. Which industries pay industrial engineers the highest salaries?
Top-paying industries for industrial engineers include petrochemical, aerospace, and technology. Healthcare and consulting firms also offer competitive pay.
6. How does an industrial engineer's salary compare to other engineering fields?
Industrial engineers earn good salaries. Here are some examples:
Mechanical engineers make $105,220.
Civil engineers earn $101,160.
Petroleum engineers get $148,590.
7. What factors affect an industrial engineer's salary the most?
An industrial engineer's salary depends on experience, location, industry, and specialized skills. Engineers in high-cost areas earn more but pay more to live. Advanced certifications and leadership roles increase pay.
8. How often do industrial engineering salaries increase?
Most engineers typically see annual raises of about 3-5% to keep up with the cost of living. Performance-based raises can be even higher. Changing jobs often brings the biggest salary boosts, usually between 15% and 30%.
9. Do industrial engineers get paid overtime?
Most industrial engineers are salaried and don't get overtime pay. Some entry-level or contract roles might qualify, depending on the company's policy.