As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Highway Design Engineer in District of Columbia is $94,113 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $45.
However, a Highway Design Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Highway Design 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.
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 Highway Design Engineers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Highway Design Engineer roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 55% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Highway Design Engineer positions in Hospitality & Leisure or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Highway Design Engineer as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | $122,347 | $59.0 | 30% |
| Biotechnology | $112,935 | $54.0 | 20% |
| Financial Services | $112,935 | $54.0 | 20% |
| Software & Networking | $112,935 | $54.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $108,230 | $52.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a Highway Design 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 Highway Design Engineer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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