According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for Mechanical Engineers is $97,000, while the average annual salary for Electricians is $63,310. This means that Mechanical Engineers earn a significantly higher salary than Electricians.
Keep in mind, however, that factors such as location, experience, and the specific workplace can affect salary. For instance, Mechanical Engineers in New Mexico may have higher earnings (averaging $120,040 per annum) compared to those in Arkansas ($78,160). As another example, the average income of Electricians in Illinois is 86% higher compared to those in Arkansas.
Mechanical Engineers vs Electricians overview
Mechanical Engineers and Electricians are crucial to the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services and Specialty Trade Contractors industries respectively. People are often interested in learning about the distinctions between these job titles, including the average earnings for each of them.
Mechanical Engineer job description
Mechanical Engineers perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
Mechanical Engineer education and experience
Becoming a Mechanical Engineer typically involves completing a Bachelor's Degree. However, among employees in this occupation, there are also some with an Associate's Degree (7%). In terms of experience, about a quarter of Mechanical Engineer jobs require a 4 to 6 years of experience in the field. A smaller part of jobs (26%) require a previous experience of 2 to 4 years.
Mechanical Engineer average salary
As reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2021, the number of Mechanical Engineers employed in the United States was 278,240, and they earned an average of $97,000 per year. The bottom 10 percent had a salary of $60,750 or less, and the top 10 percent had a salary of $136,210 or more. The average salary marks an increase of 1.5% compared the previous year.
Do Mechanical Engineers make good money?
Mechanical Engineers are usually paid well, as their average salary is 66% higher than the average salary in the United States ($58,260). Moreover, they earn 6% more than the average pay of the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services industry ($91,150).
Mechanical Engineers are usually paid well, as their average salary is 66% higher than the average salary in the United States ($58,260).
Mechanical Engineers job growth
The hiring of Mechanical Engineers has decreased in the last two years. In 2021, there have been 15,720 less roles than the previous year nationwide, which marks a decrease of 5.3%. Job growth has averaged -2.8% for the last 3 years.
Electrician job description
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.
Electrician education and experience
Most Electricians (62%) have a Post-Secondary Certificate. But this field also includes some employees who have a High School Diploma (31%). In terms of experience, 28% of Electrician occupations require a 6 months to 1 year of previous experience working in the field. A smaller portion of roles (23%) require a previous experience of 4 to 6 years.
Electrician average salary
As reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2021, the number of Electricians employed in the United States was 650,580, and they earned an average of $63,310 per year. The bottom 10 percent had a salary of $37,020 or less, and the top 10 percent had a salary of $99,800 or more. The average salary has an increase of 2.9% in comparison to the previous year.
Do Electricians make good money?
Electricians are typically paid well, since their mean salary is 9% above the average pay in the United States ($58,260). Moreover, they make 8% more than the mean salary of the Specialty Trade Contractors industry ($58,590).
Electricians are typically paid well, since their mean salary is 9% above the average pay in the United States ($58,260).
FAQ
Do Mechanical Engineers or Electricians make more?
Mechanical Engineers make about a half more than Electricians. Electricians average around $63,310 per year, while Mechanical Engineers make $97,000 per year.
How long does it take to become a Mechanical Engineer vs Electrician?
Mechanical Engineers typically need a Bachelor's Degree. A Bachelor's Degree usually takes around 4 years to obtain. On the other hand, Electricians typically need a Post-Secondary Certificate. A Post-Secondary Certificate usually takes between 1 year and 2 years to obtain.
Is it harder to become a Mechanical Engineer vs Electrician?
It is more difficult to become a Mechanical Engineer than an Electrician, since it takes 2 more years of education.
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