Petroleum Engineer Salary in Nebraska
The median petroleum engineer salary in Nebraska is $118,620 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Nebraska (2026)
Nebraska ranks #36 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Petroleum Engineer salaries in Nebraska are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $118,620 per year, petroleum engineers in Nebraska earn $13,180 less than the national median of $131,800.
A key advantage of working in Nebraska is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $118,620 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $131,800 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Nebraska is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $72,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $181,800 — a $109,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Nebraska for this role is Omaha, where the median reaches $122,574.
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 Nebraska by Experience
In Nebraska, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $75,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $175,500 per year. The cost of living index in Nebraska is 90% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Nebraska
| Percentile | NE Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,800 |
| Median (50th) | $118,620 |
| 75th Percentile | $151,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $181,800 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Nebraska
The largest employment areas for petroleum engineers in Nebraska include Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, and Grand Island. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Nebraska
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Nebraska has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Nebraska
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Nebraska'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 $56,880 over your career trajectory.
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