Petroleum Engineer Salary in Pennsylvania
The median petroleum engineer salary in Pennsylvania is $126,528 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for petroleum engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $126,528 per year, petroleum engineers in Pennsylvania earn $5,272 less than the national median of $131,800.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning petroleum engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $76,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $193,920 — a $117,120 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $134,436.
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 Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $80,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $187,200 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $126,528+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,920 |
| Median (50th) | $126,528 |
| 75th Percentile | $161,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $193,920 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for petroleum engineers in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Pennsylvania
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Pennsylvania'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 $60,672 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Petroleum Engineer Roles in Pennsylvania?
Get matched with recruiters hiring petroleum engineers in Pennsylvania at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: