Principal Electrical Engineer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Principal Electrical Engineer in United States is approximately 147,025 USD (147,580 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 Electrical Engineer do?

A principal electrical engineer is a highly skilled professional responsible for the design, development, and implementation of electrical systems and components. They lead a team of engineers and technicians in various projects, ensuring the efficient and safe operation of electrical infrastructure. Their role involves overseeing the entire lifecycle of electrical projects, from conceptualization to completion, while adhering to industry standards and regulations. Principal electrical engineers also collaborate with other departments, such as mechanical engineering and manufacturing, to integrate electrical systems seamlessly.

Skills: Principal Electrical Engineer, Electrical Systems, Design and Development, Project Management, Team Leadership, Industry Standards
Job industry: Engineering

How much does Principal Electrical 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 Electrical Engineer a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Principal Electrical 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 Electrical Engineer?

High salary for Principal Electrical Engineer would be somewhere between 161,728 USD and 213,186 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Principal Electrical Engineer in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 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: 147,025 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 12,252 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,827 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 71 USD per hour
By working as Principal Electrical Engineer a person can save up to 10,018 USD per month or 120,220 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 United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
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 Electrical 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 United States

Data as of 2025

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