The average salary for an electrical engineer in Michigan is $86,000 per year. Entry-level engineers earn around $65,000, while experienced professionals can make over $110,000. Salaries vary by industry, with automotive and manufacturing offering higher pay compared to public sector roles.
What Is the Average Salary for an Electrical Engineer in Michigan?
Electrical engineers in Michigan earn an average of $86,000 annually, based on statewide employment and wage reports. Entry-level roles start at $65,000, while senior positions exceed $110,000 depending on the industry and experience level.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and employer platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor, computer hardware engineers and electrical equipment designers often see higher salaries due to specialized skills and sector demand. We also have information on electrical engineer pay in California.
Electrical Engineer Salary in Michigan by Role and Source
| Role/Level | Average Salary | Salary Range | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Electrical Engineer | $56,820 | Not specified | BLS/Local Estimates |
| Electrical Engineer I | $80,719 | $70,601 – $90,480 | Salary.com |
| General Electrical Engineer | $98,390 | $62,160 – $130,600 | BLS |
| Electrical Engineer in Detroit | $80,056 | $74,820 – $85,724 | Glassdoor |
| Senior Electrical Engineer (Est.) | ~$100,000+ | Varies by company/experience | Company Job Listings/Estimates |
How Do Salaries Vary by City in Michigan?
Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids are the highest paying cities for electrical engineers in Michigan. Engineers in Detroit-Warren-Dearborn earn about $103,980 annually. Cities like Monroe offer competitive but slightly lower salaries near $103,350, while smaller towns typically report lower averages due to limited job openings and lower local demand.
What Influences Electrical Engineer Salaries in Michigan?
Experience level, education, and industry all influence how much electrical engineers are paid in Michigan. Engineers with over 10 years of experience or those who supervise electrical equipment installation and project design earn the most.
Industries like automotive manufacturing, computer hardware engineering, and advanced electronics typically offer salaries above the state average. Entry-level engineers with basic training or associate degrees earn less due to limited responsibilities and skills.
Does Education and Certification Impact Earnings?
Yes. Engineers with a bachelor’s or master’s degree earn more than those without. Professionals who hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license or Certified Energy Manager (CEM) designation receive higher pay due to increased responsibilities in design, development, and testing.
Examples:
- PE-certified engineers in automotive companies can earn 10–15% more.
- Engineers trained in AutoCAD or MATLAB are often preferred for design and software development roles.
Which Industries Pay Electrical Engineers the Most in Michigan?
Automotive, utilities, and high-tech manufacturing are the highest paying industries for electrical engineers. These sectors demand expertise in system design, circuit testing, and component installation, which results in competitive salaries.
Examples:
- Ford Motor Company offers roles involving the development of EV systems.
- Utility providers pay well for engineers who supervise substation and grid infrastructure projects.
What Is the Job Outlook for Electrical Engineers in Michigan?
Michigan continues to show strong employment growth for electrical engineers, especially in automotive and clean energy sectors. The state has increasing job openings tied to electric vehicle technology, smart grid systems, and manufacturing automation.
According to recent state data:
- Michigan ranks among the top 10 states for electrical engineering employment.
- Engineers skilled in both hardware and software systems are seeing growing demand.
Popular Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
What industries in Michigan offer the highest salaries for electrical engineers?
Automotive design, grid modernization, and high-tech manufacturing offer top salaries. Ford Motor Company and firms in renewable energy and electronics lead in compensation.
How does location within Michigan affect an electrical engineer’s salary?
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn engineers earn $103,980, while smaller cities like Monroe average $103,350 due to employer density and industry presence.
Is there a demand for specialization within electrical engineering in Michigan?
Yes. Electric vehicle systems and substation design engineers are in high demand as Michigan develops its energy and auto industries.
What certifications can help boost an electrical engineer’s salary in Michigan?
PE license, CEM certification, and tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB improve hiring chances and salary potential.
Are there opportunities for remote work as an electrical engineer in Michigan?
Yes, especially in roles involving software validation or design. Hands-on roles, such as equipment installation, often require on-site work.
How does the cost of living in Michigan impact an electrical engineer’s earning potential?
Michigan has a low cost of living, meaning engineers can live well on an $86,000 average salary, unlike higher-cost states such as California or New York.
