As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a BI Database Engineer I in Santa Cruz, CA is $94,580 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $45.
However, a BI Database Engineer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A BI Database Engineer I'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 a BI Database Engineer I'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 |
|---|---|---|
| BI Database Engineer I | 0-2 years | $94,572 |
| BI Data Architect II | 2-4 years | $103,107 |
| BI Data Architect III | 4-7 years | $123,162 |
| BI Data Architect IV | 7+ years | $145,167 |
| BI Data Architect V | 7-10 years | $168,553 |
What Am I Worth?
BI Database Engineer I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $105,877. While startup companies pay approximate $89,569.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $89,569 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $94,730 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $102,243 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $105,877 |
For BI Database Engineer I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Financial Services and Biotechnology sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, BI Database Engineer positions in Transportation or Hospitality & Leisure typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view BI Database Engineer I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Services | $122,954 | $59.0 | 30% |
| Biotechnology | $118,225 | $57.0 | 25% |
| Internet | $113,496 | $55.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $108,767 | $52.0 | 15% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $108,767 | $52.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a BI Database Engineer I'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 a BI Database Engineer I, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| BI Data Architect II | $103,200 | 9% |
| Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst II | $96,670 | 2% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current BI Database Engineer I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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