Electrical engineers today have a diverse skill set that can be applied across industries, from research and development and telecommunications to manufacturing and renewable energy. With competitive wages, updating your education and skills can open doors to some of the highest-paying jobs in the field. This article outlines some of the top-paying electrical engineering roles in 2025, that is complete with job responsibilities and real-world salary data to guide your career development.
Are you someone who enjoys tinkering with electrical systems or building navigation technologies and wants to know which roles in electrical engineering bring the highest earning potential? If so, you’re in the right place.According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electrical engineers is $118,780, which is a great salary for having a bachelor’s degree.1
What Jobs Are Available to Electrical Engineers?
There are many electrical engineering jobs that are available in a wide range of specialties. Computer engineering, systems engineering, power engineering, telecommunications, radio-frequency engineering, and hardware engineering are all specializations that fall under the electrical engineering umbrella.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical and electronics engineers most often work in engineering services, power generation, manufacturing, research and development, and telecommunications.¹ Some are also employed by the federal government, particularly in defense, aerospace, and transportation.
Electrical engineering is a versatile career path, allowing professionals to specialize in areas that range from radar and navigation systems to consumer electronics and renewable power systems. They also may work on broadcast and communications systems, electric motors, and power generation equipment.
Industries that hire electrical engineers include automotive, aerospace, defense, consumer electronics, renewable energy, telecommunications, commercial construction, and transportation systems such as rail and marine. Job demand remains stable: the BLS projects about 19,000 openings for electrical and electronics engineers in the next decade, which is driven largely by retirements and the expansion of industries like renewable energy and electric vehicles.¹
Top 10 Highest-Paying Electrical Engineering Jobs in 2025
| Job Title | Average Salary (2025) |
| Hardware Design Engineer | $139,0002 |
| Machine Learning Engineer | $172,7003 |
| Systems Engineer | $121,0004 |
| Electronics Design Engineer | $104,4905 |
| Software Engineer | $125,1306 |
| Applications Engineer | $119,0007 |
| Communication Engineer | $113,0008 |
| Digital Signal Processing Engineer | $147,5209 |
| Production Engineer | $92,66010 |
| Computer Hardware Engineer | $121,00011 |
Understanding salary ranges across the different job market sectors can help you plan your career path and identify which roles will match your skills and goals best. These averages reflect national U.S. salary data as of 2025. Actual pay can vary by industry, location, and level of experience.
10 Highest-Paying Jobs for Electrical Engineers: A Closer Look
- Hardware Design Engineer — Hardware design engineers create processors, circuit boards, and embedded systems for computers and electronic devices. They typically know languages like C++, VHDL, and Verilog. The average annual salary for hardware design engineers in 2025 is about $139,000.2
- Machine Learning Engineer — Machine learning engineers design AI models and predictive systems. They use Python, Java, C++, and R to create solutions in robotics, autonomous driving, and analytics. In 2025, they earn an average of $172,700 per year.3
- Systems Engineer — Systems engineers work to integrate hardware and software systems to build complex systems such as aerospace controls and IT infrastructure. They earn about $121,000 annually on average in 2025.4
- Electronics Design Engineer — Electronics design engineers will create and test advanced electronic systems such as microchips, GPS devices, and satellite systems. They make about $104,490 annually as of 2025.5
- Software Engineer — Software engineers will develop embedded software, IoT applications, and automation platforms. They earn $125,130 on average in 2025.6
- Applications Engineer — Applications engineers connect product design with customer needs, testing software and optimizing applications. They earn $119,000 annually on average in 2025.7
- Communications Engineer — These specialists work to design and test communication systems in fields like 5G, satellite internet, and networking. In 2025, their average salary is $113,000 per year.8
- Digital Signal Processing Engineer — DSP engineers design systems for audio, imaging, and telecommunications. They earn an average of $147,520 in 2025.9
- Production Engineer — Production engineers work to streamline manufacturing processes, focusing on efficiency and sustainability. They earn about $92,66010 annually as of 2025.10
- Computer Hardware Engineer — Computer hardware engineers will research, design, and test processors, routers, and memory devices. In 2025, they make an average of $121,000 per year.11
Best Entry-Level Electrical Engineering Jobs in 2025
Entry-level electrical engineering jobs are available across various industries including telecommunications, transportation, renewable energy, electronics, and manufacturing. With a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field, you are well qualified for these entry-level roles:
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technician — Assists engineers in developing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems. Median pay in 2024: $77,180.12
- Electrical Drafter — Prepares wiring diagrams, circuit layouts, and technical drawings. Median pay in 2024: $65,380.13
- Electro-Mechanical Technician — Works with robotics, automated systems, and electromechanical equipment. Median pay in 2024: $70,760.14
- Junior Electrical Engineer — Entry-level role supporting design, analysis, and troubleshooting of electrical systems. Average pay is typically around $77,0000, but will vary based on your geographic location and industry.15
Many entry-level jobs will also serve as stepping stones towards higher-paying roles. For example, an electrical technician may advance into engineering design or systems engineering after gaining several years of hands-on experience and professional licensure.
Best Remote Electrical Engineering Jobs in 2025
Most remote electrical engineer jobs in 2025 will still require a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field, plus two to five years of in-person experience. Even in remote roles, occasional travel or on-site visits may still be required for testing equipment or client collaboration.
Remote-friendly electrical engineering jobs include:
- Electrical Designer — Creates wiring layouts and system schematics using CAD and simulation software.
- Telecommunications Engineer — Designs and manages communication networks, including 5G and satellite systems.
- Machine Learning Engineer — Develops AI models and systems, often fully remote due to the software-based nature of the work.
- Computer Hardware Engineer — Designs and tests circuit boards, processors, and routers, with portions of the role manageable through remote CAD and simulation tools.
- Software Engineer — Works on embedded systems, IoT applications, and automation platforms.
Remote opportunities in electrical engineering have expanded significantly since 2020, especially in fields like renewable energy software, telecommunications, and AI applications. Hybrid work is now common, with many engineers splitting time between home and occasional on-site work.
Best Companies Hiring Electrical Engineers in 2025
There is a wide variety of industries for electrical engineers. Below are some of the top companies that are hiring in 2025. These organizations offer above-median wages, career development, and competitive benefits packages.
- IBM (International Business Machines Corporation) — IBM continues to hire hardware, software, and systems engineers worldwide.
- Rockwell Automation (ROK) — Specializes in industrial automation and information solutions.
- Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) — The aerospace and defense leader employs thousands of engineers in avionics, space systems, and defense technologies.
- CGI Inc. — A top IT and consulting company that employs engineers in system integration and defense projects.
- Tesla and Rivian — Both EV manufacturers hire electrical engineers in battery design, power electronics, and embedded systems.
How to Succeed as an Electrical Engineer in 2025
If you’re aiming to grow in your electrical engineering career, focusing on both technical and professional development is key. Here are five proven strategies:
- Earn an ABET-Accredited Degree — Most employers will require a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a closely related field. Choosing a program that is accredited by ABET will ensure that you are eligible for licensure and stronger employment prospects.
- Consider Advanced Education — While not always required, a master’s or PhD can lead to specialized roles in AI, renewable energy, or aerospace. Postgraduate credentials are increasingly valued in competitive markets.
- Keep Skills Current with Certifications and Training — Certifications in areas like power systems, embedded systems, or programming (Python, MATLAB, C++) can strengthen your résumé. Online platforms and industry-recognized programs offer continuing education opportunities.
- Gain Hands-On Experience — Internships, apprenticeships, and co-op programs are essential for building practical skills. BLS data shows that employers strongly prefer candidates with real-world project experience.
- Develop Soft Skills — Building strong communication skills helps you present ideas clearly, explain technical details to clients or team members, and collaborate effectively across departments.
Professional licensure can also boost your career opportunities. To become a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), you’ll need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, gain work experience (typically four years), and then pass the PE exam. Many senior-level engineering roles, especially in government and consulting, will either require or strongly prefer licensure.
Electrical Engineering Job Outlook in 2025
The job outlook for electrical engineers remains steady in 2025. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of electrical and electronics engineers to grow by 9 percent from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than all occupations.1 This translates to roughly 19,000 job openings each year, which is largely driven by retirements and the expansion of industries like renewable energy, electric vehicles, and telecommunications.1 Growth is fueled by rapid advances in technology, with electrical engineers playing key roles in developing consumer electronics, power grids, clean energy solutions, and communications infrastructure.
Is Electrical Engineering a Good Career in 2025?
Yes, electrical engineering is a strong career choice in 2025 if you enjoy solving complex problems, working with cutting-edge technology, and visualizing systems in detail. The job outlook is stable, with demand across renewable energy, electric vehicles, and telecommunications. Even entry-level positions can provide solid pay. For example, electrical and electronics engineering technicians earned a median annual wage of $118,870 with a job growth rate projected at 9% in the next decade.1
With a degree and several years of experience, you may qualify for some of the highest-paying electrical engineering jobs, including roles such as hardware design engineer or machine learning engineer.
Electrical Engineering Careers FAQ (2025)
These are some of the most common questions people ask when exploring electrical engineering careers in 2025.
Electrical engineers need strong technical and analytical skills, which includes proficiency in circuit design, power systems, and electronics. In 2025, employers also value coding skills (Python, MATLAB, C++), CAD and simulation software, and knowledge of renewable energy systems. Just as important are soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Do electrical engineers need to learn to code?
No, not all electrical engineers need to be expert coders, but many roles now expect basic programming knowledge. Coding is especially valuable for simulations, hardware configuration, and automation. Learning Python, MATLAB, or C++ can give engineers a competitive edge in today’s job market.
Is electrical engineering difficult?
Electrical engineering is considered a challenging field because it requires advanced math, physics, and abstract problem-solving. While rigorous, many engineers find the challenge rewarding, especially for those who enjoy applying technical knowledge to real-world innovations.
How much do electrical engineers make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical engineers earn a median annual salary of $118,780.1 In addition to a great annual wage, the job outlook is better than average, with projected job growth of 9% throughout the next decade.1
References
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineers.htm
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/hardware-design-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,24.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/career/machine-learning-engineer/salaries
- https://www.indeed.com/career/system-engineer/salaries
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Electronic-Design-Engineer-Salary
- https://www.indeed.com/career/software-engineer/salaries
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/applications-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,21.htm
- https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/communication-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,22.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/career/dsp-engineer/salaries
- https://www.indeed.com/career/production-engineer/salaries
- https://www.indeed.com/career/hardware-engineer/salaries
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineering-technicians.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/drafters.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electro-mechanical-technicians.htm
- https://www.indeed.com/career/entry-level-electrical-engineer/salaries
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