Engineering South Dakota (SD) Rank #43 of 50

Industrial Engineer Salary in South Dakota

The median industrial engineer salary in South Dakota is $83,864 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $95,300.

Median Salary
$83,864
vs National
$-11,436
State Rank
#43 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Industrial Engineer Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)

South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for industrial engineer compensation. Industrial Engineer salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $83,864 per year, industrial engineers in South Dakota earn $11,436 less than the national median of $95,300.

A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $83,864 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $95,300 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: industrial engineers at the 10th percentile earn $53,680, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $130,240 — a $76,560 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $87,676.

Nationally, industrial engineer employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in South Dakota and beyond.

Industrial Engineer Salary in South Dakota by Experience

In South Dakota, an entry-level industrial engineer earns around $56,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $124,960 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$56,320
$-7,680 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$84,480
$-11,520 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$124,960
$-17,040 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Dakota

Percentile SD Salary
10th Percentile $53,680
25th Percentile $66,880
Median (50th) $83,864
75th Percentile $105,600
90th Percentile $130,240

Industrial Engineer Salary by City in South Dakota

The largest employment areas for industrial engineers in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Industrial Engineer in South Dakota

Education

Most industrial engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Lean ManufacturingSix SigmaProcess OptimizationAutoCADStatistical AnalysisOperations Research

Job Outlook in South Dakota

Nationally, industrial engineer employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Industrial Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $41,096 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Industrial Engineer Salary in South Dakota

How much does a Industrial Engineer make in South Dakota? ▼
The median industrial engineer salary in South Dakota is $83,864 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $95,300. Salaries range from $53,680 (10th percentile) to $130,240 (90th percentile).
How much does a Industrial Engineer make per hour in South Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $83,864, a industrial engineer in South Dakota earns approximately $40 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Dakota a good state for industrial engineers? ▼
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for industrial engineer pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level industrial engineers earn $56,320, while senior professionals earn $124,960.
How does South Dakota compare to other states for industrial engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for industrial engineers is Hawaii at $162,010. South Dakota's median of $83,864 ranks #43 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Tennessee ($84,817) and Missouri ($83,864).
What is the entry-level industrial engineer salary in South Dakota? ▼
An entry-level industrial engineer in South Dakota earns approximately $56,320 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $84,480. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $124,960.
What city in South Dakota pays industrial engineers the most? ▼
Sioux Falls is the highest paying city in South Dakota for industrial engineers, with a median salary of $87,676. Other cities include Rapid City and Aberdeen.