Petroleum Engineer Salary in Montana
The median petroleum engineer salary in Montana is $125,210 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Montana (2026)
Montana ranks #26 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Petroleum Engineer salaries in Montana are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $125,210 per year, petroleum engineers in Montana earn $6,590 less than the national median of $131,800.
Montana's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning petroleum engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Montana is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $76,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $191,900 — a $115,900 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Montana for this role is Bozeman, where the median reaches $151,570.
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for petroleum engineers across the country.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Montana by Experience
In Montana, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $79,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $185,250 per year. The cost of living index in Montana is 95% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Montana
| Percentile | MT Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,900 |
| Median (50th) | $125,210 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $191,900 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Montana
The largest employment areas for petroleum engineers in Montana include Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, and Bozeman. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Montana
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Montana has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Montana
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Montana's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Petroleum Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $60,040 over your career trajectory.
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