Petroleum Engineer Salary in Rhode Island
The median petroleum engineer salary in Rhode Island is $138,390 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for petroleum engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $138,390 per year, petroleum engineers in Rhode Island earn $6,590 more than the national median of $131,800.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning petroleum engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $84,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $212,100 — a $128,100 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $142,344.
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 Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $88,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $204,750 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $84,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,100 |
| Median (50th) | $138,390 |
| 75th Percentile | $176,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $212,100 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for petroleum engineers in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Rhode Island
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Rhode Island'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 $66,360 over your career trajectory.
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