As of July 01, 2026, the average hourly rate for a Commissioning Engineer I in the United States is $42, which translates to an annual salary of about $87,566.
However, the hourly wage can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s a detailed look at the typical pay range per hour:
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A Commissioning 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 Commissioning 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Commissioning Engineer I | 0-2 years | $87,566 |
| Commissioning Engineer II | 2-4 years | $95,375 |
| Commissioning Engineer III | 4-7 years | $106,948 |
| Commissioning Engineer IV | 7+ years | $118,938 |
| Commissioning Engineering Manager | 7+ years | $119,797 |
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 Commissioning Engineer Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Commissioning Engineer I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $97,942. While startup companies pay approximate $82,830.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $82,830 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $87,605 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $94,582 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $97,942 |
For Commissioning Engineer I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Commissioning Engineer positions in Retail & Wholesale or MFG Nondurable typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Commissioning Engineer I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $105,079 | $51.0 | 20% |
| Financial Services | $105,079 | $51.0 | 20% |
| Internet | $105,079 | $51.0 | 20% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $105,079 | $51.0 | 20% |
| Software & Networking | $105,079 | $51.0 | 20% |
Understanding how a Commissioning 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 July 01, 2026
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The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for Commissioning Engineer I roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.
Ensures the successful startup, testing, and commissioning of industrial systems and equipment to verify performance and compliance with design specifications. Performs pre-commissioning checks, functional testing, and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and control systems. Coordinates with design, construction, and operations teams to identify and resolve technical issues during startup. Documents test results, prepares commissioning reports, and ensures all systems meet safety and operational standards. Supports the development of commissioning procedures, schedules, and quality control measures. Ensures adherence to industry codes, company standards, and regulatory requirements throughout the commissioning process. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Salary.com salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons are derived from both employer job postings and third-party data sources. We also provide multiple percentiles of salary information for your reference, click here to know Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial to Getting Pay Equity Right. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
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