Alex Carter is a data journalist specializing in engineering and technology labor market trends. He has over a decade of experience helping students and professionals navigate their career paths.
Reviewed by Dr. Maria Flores, P.E.
First Published:
If you’re mapping out your career path or considering a change, the engineering field offers some of today’s most promising and financially rewarding opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), architecture and engineering careers are set for faster-than-average growth, with around 195,000 job openings expected each year through 2033. The pay is a major draw, with a median annual wage of $97,310 in May 2024—nearly double the median for all other jobs.
Within this dynamic sector, two foundational disciplines stand out: Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. Both fields boast six-figure median salaries and projected growth rates that are triple the national average, making them a strategic choice for long-term career stability and success.
Key Takeaways
- High Growth: Mechanical Engineering jobs are projected to grow 11% and Industrial Engineering jobs 12% from 2023-2033, much faster than the 4% average for all occupations.
- Strong Salaries: In May 2024, the median pay for Mechanical Engineers was $102,320, while Industrial Engineers earned a median of $101,140.
- Abundant Opportunities: Together, these fields are expected to generate over 45,000 job openings each year on average, driven by innovation, automation, and the need for efficiency.
- Degree is Key: A bachelor’s degree in engineering is the gateway to these roles, leading to significantly higher pay and better job prospects than technician or technologist positions.
Why Engineering? A Look at the Numbers
The latest BLS projections confirm a robust and sustained demand for engineering expertise. For anyone weighing their options, the data provides a clear incentive to pursue a career in these technical fields.
Exceptional Growth Projections
The job outlook for both mechanical and industrial engineers is classified by the BLS as “much faster than the average.” Mechanical engineering roles are set to increase by 11% between 2023 and 2033, while industrial engineering is projected to grow by an even more impressive 12%. This translates to a combined total of over 45,000 new and replacement job openings annually.
Engineer vs. Technologist: A Critical Career Distinction
It’s vital to understand the difference between an engineer and an engineering technologist/technician. While the titles sound similar, they represent distinct career paths. A four-year bachelor’s degree is the standard entry-point for an engineer, unlocking a median salary premium of over $30,000 and access to a job market growing up to six times faster than related technician roles. For more information on educational paths, you can explore resources from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
| Feature | Engineer (ME/IE) | Technologist/Technician (ME/IE) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Design, develop, and test complex systems and products. | Assist engineers by operating, testing, and maintaining equipment. |
| Typical Education | Bachelor’s degree. | Associate’s degree. |
| 2024 Median Pay | $102,320 (ME) / $101,140 (IE). | $68,730 (ME Tech) / $64,790 (IE Tech). |
| Job Outlook (2023-33) | 11% (ME) / 12% (IE). | 2% (ME Tech) / 4% (IE Tech). |
Mechanical Engineering (ME) Job Outlook
Mechanical engineers are the architects of the physical world, designing everything from tiny sensors to massive transportation systems. Their work is crucial for innovation across countless industries.
“The demand for mechanical engineers is fueled by the relentless pace of technological innovation, especially the rise of complex automation in manufacturing.”
ME by the Numbers
- Median Salary (May 2024): $102,320 per year.
- Top 10% Earners: More than $161,240.
- Annual Job Openings: ~19,800 per year.
- Key Industries: Architectural/engineering services, machinery manufacturing, and transportation equipment manufacturing.
Top-Paying States & Cities for Mechanical Engineers
While a high salary is attractive, it’s essential to consider the local cost of living. For example, the San Jose, CA metro area boasts the highest average ME salary at $155,300, but the median home price is a staggering $1.3 million. In contrast, Albuquerque, NM, offers a high average salary of $133,950 with a more manageable median home price of $337,000. Always conduct a thorough cost-of-living analysis. You can use our salary calculator to compare offers.
Industrial Engineering (IE) Job Outlook
While MEs design the product, IEs perfect the process. They are masters of efficiency, working to eliminate waste and streamline operations in manufacturing, supply chains, healthcare, and more. This broad applicability is a key reason for the field’s strong growth outlook.
IE by the Numbers
- Median Salary (May 2024): $101,140 per year.
- Top 10% Earners: More than $157,140.
- Annual Job Openings: ~25,200 per year.
- Key Industries: Transportation equipment manufacturing, professional/scientific/technical services, and computer/electronic product manufacturing.
Top-Paying Industries for Industrial Engineers
The versatility of industrial engineers allows them to command high salaries in a variety of sectors. The professional, scientific, and technical services industry, which includes high-value consulting, leads the pack with a median wage of $106,420. This reflects a growing trend of companies hiring IEs to optimize business strategies beyond the factory floor. For more on this field, visit the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE).
Engineering Your Future: Which Path is Right for You?
Choosing between mechanical and industrial engineering depends on your interests. Are you passionate about designing and building tangible things, or are you driven to analyze and improve complex systems? Both paths offer a secure and rewarding career.
For a comprehensive look at these and other professions, the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook is an invaluable resource for any aspiring professional.
