Technology as we know is always evolving, making computer engineers, also known as computer systems engineering, one of the top paying careers in the job market. Computer Engineers are very sought after by companies of all sizes. Whether you’re at the entry level stage or at the high end of your Information Technology (IT) career stage, you are sure to have a very lucrative career with immeasurable growth potential.
According to PayScale, computer engineering salary can range from $49,758 to $79,260 a year. However, computer engineering salary range is based on the level of experience obtained in that field. For example, a computer engineering salary with one year experience will earn an average of $40,600 to $60,344, while one with five to nine years of experience will earn $52,035 to $75,693 per year.
One must keep in mind that a computer engineering salary is not based solely on experience but based on whether or not the individual holds a degree within the related field. The degree is what will determine if your salary is within the $40,000 range or the $70,000 and up range. In most cases, it is the past experience and the degree that will open the door to many opportunities; not the years of experience alone.
While most employers may not place much stock on which university the degree was obtained from; i.e. Stanford, Harvard or Yale, although those colleges would be a major factor in being hired, employers can be very particular as to what kind of degree was obtained; Associates, Bachelor or Masters.
Should one give up obtaining a position as a computer engineer due to the fact he or she has the experience but not the degree? The simple answer is no. Many companies offer the opportunity to obtain the desired degree while providing on the job experience. Therefore, you could have the best of both worlds; gaining the experience needed to succeed and obtaining the degree, which will be essential in order to advance and have growth opportunity.