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Commissioning Engineer I Salary in the United States

How much does a Commissioning Engineer I make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Commissioning Engineer I in the United States is $87,569 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $42.

However, a Commissioning Engineer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $103,141
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $79,366 to $95,720
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $71,898
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Commissioning Engineer I Salaries

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.

How Experience Level Affects Commissioning Engineer I Salaries?

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:

  • Commissioning Engineer I (0-2 years): $87,569
  • Commissioning Engineer II (2-4 years): $95,359
  • Commissioning Engineer III (4-7 years): $106,924
  • Commissioning Engineer IV (7+ years): $118,927
  • Commissioning Engineering Manager (7+ years): $119,765
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Commissioning Engineer I0-2 years$87,569
Commissioning Engineer II2-4 years$95,359
Commissioning Engineer III4-7 years$106,924
Commissioning Engineer IV7+ years$118,927
Commissioning Engineering Manager7+ years$119,765
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How Do Commissioning Engineer Is Salaries Vary from State to State?

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:
  • District of Columbia: $96,956.
  • California: $96,589.
  • Massachusetts: $95,301.

Top Paying Cities for Commissioning Engineer I

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: $110,451
  • San Francisco: $109,241
  • Oakland: $106,939

Commissioning Engineer I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

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 $97,862. While startup companies pay approximate $82,781.

Commissioning Engineer I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $82,781
Growth Stage 51~500 $87,549
Established 501~5000 $94,498
Enterprise 5000+ $97,862

Commissioning Engineer I Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

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.

The top paying industries for a Commissioning Engineer I

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Biotechnology$105,083$51.020%
Financial Services$105,083$51.020%
Internet$105,083$51.020%
Pharmaceuticals$105,083$51.020%
Software & Networking$105,083$51.020%

Commissioning Engineer I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

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 September 01, 2026
$79,366
Average $87,569/year
$95,720
$6,614
Average $7,297/month
$7,977
$1,526
Average $1,684/week
$1,841
$38
Average $42/hour
$46
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $95,720 $7,977 $1,841 $46
Average $87,569 $7,297 $1,684 $42
25th Percentile $79,366 $6,614 $1,526 $38

Commissioning Engineer I Salary Growth & Career Path

Commissioning Engineer I

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Commissioning 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
Commissioning Engineer II $95,359 9%
Industrial Engineer II $95,731 9%

Most common benefits for Commissioning Engineer I

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

Common company salaries for Commissioning Engineer I

Here are companies hiring for Commissioning Engineer I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Commissioning Engineer I

1. Where can a Commissioning Engineer I earn the most?

A Commissioning Engineer I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Commissioning Engineer I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Commissioning Engineer I is $110,451.

2. What is the highest pay for Commissioning Engineer I?

The highest pay for Commissioning Engineer I is $103,141.

3. What is the lowest pay for Commissioning Engineer I?

The lowest pay for Commissioning Engineer I is $71,898.

4. What are the responsibilities of Commissioning Engineer I?

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.

5. What industry pays the highest salary for Commissioning Engineer I?

The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for Commissioning Engineer I roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.

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.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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