How Petroleum Engineers in Idaho get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Idaho compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $101,100 | $76,800 | $131,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $125,700 | $95,500 | $163,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $144,500 | $109,800 | $187,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $173,400 | $131,700 | $225,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $196,500 | $149,300 | $255,400 |
Top occupations by median pay in Idaho — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Petroleum Engineer salary in Idaho is $144,500 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $109,800 and the 75th at $187,800.
Pay-wise, Idaho sits -8% below the national Petroleum Engineer median ($157,000). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Petroleum Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Idaho earn around $173,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $196,500 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Idaho ranks 33rd for Petroleum Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $219,800 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
Get my personal salary report →