Principal Engineer salary in China

Average Yearly Salary of Principal Engineer in China is approximately 265,126 CNY (33,154 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Principal Engineer do?

A principal engineer is a high-level technical expert responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing complex engineering projects. They lead a team of engineers and collaborate with other departments to ensure the successful execution of projects. Principal engineers are involved in all stages of the engineering process, from conceptualization to completion, and are responsible for making critical decisions that impact the overall success of the project. Their role includes conducting research, analyzing data, and identifying innovative solutions to engineering challenges. They also provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers, ensuring the development of their skills and knowledge. Principal engineers must possess strong leadership and communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Skills: Principal Engineer, Engineering Leadership, Technical Expertise, Project Management, Innovation, Team Collaboration
Job industry: Engineering

How much does Principal Engineer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Principal Engineer a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Principal Engineer is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Principal Engineer?

High salary for Principal Engineer would be somewhere between 291,639 CNY and 384,433 CNY. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Principal Engineer in China?

Living in China the approximate monthly expenses are: 514 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 265,126 CNY
Estimated Monthly Salary: 22,094 CNY
Estimated Weekly Salary: 5,099 CNY per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 127 CNY per hour
By working as Principal Engineer a person can save up to 2,249 USD per month or 26,986 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in China, see costs of living in China.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar (Burma), Laos, Vietnam, North Korea.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Principal Engineer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in China

Data as of 2025

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