Petroleum Engineer Salary in South Dakota
The median petroleum engineer salary in South Dakota is $115,984 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Petroleum Engineer salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $115,984 per year, petroleum engineers in South Dakota earn $15,816 less than the national median of $131,800.
A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $115,984 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $131,800 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $70,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $177,760 — a $107,360 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $121,256.
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 South Dakota by Experience
In South Dakota, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $73,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $171,600 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $115,984+ 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 South Dakota
| Percentile | SD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,760 |
| Median (50th) | $115,984 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $177,760 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in South Dakota
The largest employment areas for petroleum engineers in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in South Dakota
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Dakota
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). South Dakota'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 $55,616 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Petroleum Engineer Roles in South Dakota?
Get matched with recruiters hiring petroleum engineers in South Dakota at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: