Petroleum Engineer Salary in Portland, Oregon
The median petroleum engineer salary in Portland, OR is $155,524 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 7.3% above the Oregon state average.
Petroleum Engineer Pay in Portland: What to Expect (2026)
Portland offers a median petroleum engineer salary of $155,524, which is $10,544 above the Oregon state average of $144,980. Compared to the national median of $131,800, Portland pays above average for this role.
However, Portland's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $155,524 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $131,800. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Portland should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for petroleum engineers in Portland spans from $94,400 at the 10th percentile to $238,360 at the 90th percentile — a $143,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $99,120, while senior petroleum engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $230,100. As a major metro area with a population of 652,503, Portland typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Portland by Experience
In Portland, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $99,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $230,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Portland, OR
| Percentile | Portland |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $94,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $120,360 |
| Median (50th) | $155,524 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,240 |
| 90th Percentile | $238,360 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Other Oregon Cities
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Portland
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Portland and the surrounding Oregon 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 Portland may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Petroleum Engineer Jobs in Portland
Browse open petroleum engineer positions in Portland, OR: