Airport Design Engineer Salary in the United States

How much does an Airport Design Engineer make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for an Airport Design Engineer in the United States is $73,401 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.

However, an Airport Design Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $93,079
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $64,201 to $83,701
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $55,825

Key Factors That Influence Airport Design Engineer Salaries

An Airport Design Engineer's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Airport Design Engineers

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $92,501
  • San Francisco: $91,501
  • Oakland: $89,601

Airport Design Engineer Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Airport Design Engineer salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $73,401. While startup companies pay approximate $73,401.

Airport Design Engineer Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $73,401
Growth Stage 51~500 $73,401
Established 501~5000 $73,401
Enterprise 5000+ $73,401

Airport Design Engineer Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how an Airport Design Engineer's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$64,201
Average $73,401/year
$83,701
$5,350
Average $6,117/month
$6,975
$1,235
Average $1,412/week
$1,610
$31
Average $35/hour
$40
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $83,701 $6,975 $1,610 $40
Average $73,401 $6,117 $1,412 $35
25th Percentile $64,201 $5,350 $1,235 $31

Airport Design Engineer Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Airport Design Engineer, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Airport Design Engineer Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Aviation Engineer III $110,800 51%
Aerospace Aviation Engineer III $110,740 51%
Senior Engineer $110,800 51%
GNC Engineer III $115,900 58%

Most common benefits for Airport Design Engineer

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Airport Design Engineer

1. How much does United Airlines pay flight engineers?

The salary for Airport Design Engineers typically ranges from $61,901 to $80,601, with a mid-point salary of $70,701. This reflects the compensation structure for this role, which may vary based on experience and location.

2. Does TSA make a lot of money?

The salary for an Airport Design Engineer ranges from $61,901 to $80,601, with a mid-point salary of $70,701. This indicates a competitive earning potential in the field, especially when compared to other roles in the aviation industry.

3. Is a design engineer in high demand?

Yes, design engineers are in demand, with a projected employment growth of 3% from 2019 to 2029, aligning with the average for all occupations. This demand is fueled by the need for innovative products and efficient designs. Salary ranges for Airport Design Engineers typically fall between $61,901 and $80,601, with a median salary of $70,701.

4. How much do airport jobs pay in USA?

Airport jobs in the USA, specifically for Airport Design Engineers, offer salaries ranging from $61,901 to $80,601 annually. The average salary is approximately $70,701, reflecting the expertise and responsibilities associated with this role. Entry-level positions typically start at $61,901, while experienced professionals can earn up to $80,601 per year.

5. What is the highest paying job at the airport?

The highest paying job at the airport is typically the Airport Design Engineer, with a salary range from $61,901 to $80,601. The average salary for this role is around $70,701, reflecting the expertise required in designing and planning airport facilities. Other high-paying aviation jobs include airport manager and aviation manager.

6. How much does an airport designer make?

An Airport Design Engineer typically earns between $61,901 and $80,601 annually, with a median salary of $70,701. While some cities like San Francisco and San Jose offer significantly higher salaries, the general range for this role reflects the specialized skills and expertise required in airport design.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

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