As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for an Aviation Engineer V in the United States is $162,800 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $78.
However, an Aviation Engineer V's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Aviation Engineer V's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Aviation Engineer V's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Aviation Engineer III | 4-7 years | $110,738 |
| Aviation Engineer IV | 7+ years | $140,155 |
| Aviation Engineer V | 7-10 years | $162,780 |
| Aviation Engineer VI | 10-12 years | $199,473 |
| Aviation Engineering Supervisor | 12+ years | $131,810 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Aviation Engineer Vs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Aviation Engineer V salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $180,794. While startup companies pay approximate $153,218.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $153,218 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $161,961 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $174,668 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $180,794 |
For Aviation Engineer V roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 120% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Software & Networking and Energy & Utilities sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 50% above the average. In contrast, Aviation Engineer positions in Transportation or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Aviation Engineer V as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software & Networking | $244,200 | $117.0 | 50% |
| Energy & Utilities | $227,920 | $110.0 | 40% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $211,640 | $102.0 | 30% |
| MFG Durable | $179,080 | $86.0 | 10% |
Understanding how an Aviation Engineer V'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 August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Aviation Engineer V, 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.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Aviation Engineer VI | $199,500 | 23% |
| Aerospace Aviation Engineer VI | $199,200 | 22% |
| General Engineer VI | $187,100 | 15% |
| GNC Engineer VI | $212,100 | 30% |
Salaries for an Aviation Engineer V can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary from $162,756 in 2023 to around $162,756 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Aviation Engineer V salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2023 |
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| 2024 | $162,756 |
| 2025 |
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| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Software & Networking industry offers the highest average compensation for Aviation Engineer V roles, with salaries approximately 50% above the market median.
Aviation engineering can be challenging, involving high-pressure situations, tight deadlines, and complex projects. However, many professionals find fulfillment in overcoming these challenges. With salaries ranging from $165,900 to $198,200, the rewards can be significant, making the effort worthwhile for those passionate about advancements in the field.
Aviation Engineers are among the highest-paid professionals in the USA, with salaries ranging from a minimum of $165,900 to a mid-level of $181,500, and a maximum of $198,200. This places them in a competitive salary bracket alongside other high-paying professions such as corporate executives, airline pilots, and IT managers.
The highest paid aerospace engineers typically include roles such as Thermodynamics Engineer and Propulsion Systems Engineer. Based on current salary data, an Aviation Engineer can expect a salary range from $165,900 to $198,200, with a mid-salary of $181,500. This reflects the competitive nature of the aerospace industry and the specialized skills required.
Aerospace engineers can earn competitive salaries, with a typical range from $165,900 to $198,200. While some may reach up to $200,000, the majority fall within this range. Our team consists of dedicated engineers with expertise in aerospace, robotics, and self-driving technology, striving to shape the future of these industries.
An AV engineer is responsible for setting up, configuring, and maintaining systems like cameras, lighting, microphones, and control systems for broadcasts and communications. In terms of salary, an AV engineer can expect a minimum of $165,900, a mid-range salary of $181,500, and a maximum of $198,200, reflecting their expertise and the complexity of their work.
The estimated total pay for an Aviation Engineer ranges from $165,900 to $198,200 per year, with a mid-salary of $181,500. This reflects the competitive compensation in the aviation industry, highlighting the value of expertise in this field.
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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