Petroleum Engineer Salary in Fairbanks, Alaska
The median petroleum engineer salary in Fairbanks, AK is $171,340 per year, which is 30.0% above the national median and 4.8% above the Alaska state average.
Petroleum Engineer Pay in Fairbanks: What to Expect (2026)
Fairbanks offers a median petroleum engineer salary of $171,340, which is $7,908 above the Alaska state average of $163,432. Compared to the national median of $131,800, Fairbanks pays above average for this role.
However, Fairbanks's cost of living index is 130%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $171,340 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $131,800. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Fairbanks should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for petroleum engineers in Fairbanks spans from $104,000 at the 10th percentile to $262,600 at the 90th percentile — a $158,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $109,200, while senior petroleum engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $253,500. Fairbanks is a smaller market (pop. 32,325), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Fairbanks by Experience
In Fairbanks, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $109,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $253,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 130% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Fairbanks, AK
| Percentile | Fairbanks |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $104,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $132,600 |
| Median (50th) | $171,340 |
| 75th Percentile | $218,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $262,600 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Other Alaska Cities
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Fairbanks
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Fairbanks and the surrounding Alaska area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Fairbanks may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Petroleum Engineer Jobs in Fairbanks
Browse open petroleum engineer positions in Fairbanks, AK: