As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Phd Engineer in Mission Viejo, CA is $109,442 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $53.
However, a Phd Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Phd Engineer'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 Phd Engineer'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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Expatriat... Level Phd Engineer | $81,909 |
| Expatriat... Level Phd Engineer | $97,481 |
| Phd Engin... Level Phd Engineer | $112,826 |
| Expatriat... Level Phd Engineer | $143,000 |
| Expatriat... Level Phd Engineer | $130,838 |
What Am I Worth?
For Phd Engineer 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 Healthcare and Aerospace & Defense sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Phd Engineer positions in Hospitality & Leisure or Financial Services typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Phd Engineer as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | $142,274 | $68.0 | 30% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $131,330 | $63.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $125,858 | $61.0 | 15% |
| Telecom | $125,858 | $61.0 | 15% |
| Business Services | $120,386 | $58.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Phd 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 August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Phd Engineer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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