How Petroleum Engineers in Virginia get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Virginia compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $124,100 | $94,300 | $161,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $154,300 | $117,200 | $200,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $177,400 | $134,800 | $230,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $212,800 | $161,700 | $276,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $241,200 | $183,300 | $313,700 |
Top occupations by median pay in Virginia — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Virginia
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Petroleum Engineer salary in Virginia is $177,400 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $134,800 and the 75th at $230,700.
Pay-wise, Virginia sits +13% above the national Petroleum Engineer median ($157,000). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Petroleum Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Virginia earn around $212,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $241,200 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Virginia ranks 17th 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.
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