Petroleum Engineers
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$141,280
~$68/hr · ~$11,773/mo
US Jobs
20K
Slower than average
AI & Automation Risk
6/10
Moderate
AI & Automation Risk
Moderate 6/10
Petroleum engineering involves significant digital knowledge work, such as reservoir modeling, data analysis, and drilling simulation, which are highly susceptible to AI-driven optimization and automation. However, the role remains anchored by the necessity of physical site visits to remote or offshore locations to oversee equipment installation and troubleshoot real-world mechanical issues that AI cannot physically address.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amarillo, TXBEST VALUE | $199,990 | Below avg (91.4) | $218,867 |
| Anchorage, AK | $205,380 | Above avg (106.8) | $192,356 |
| Oklahoma City, OK | $173,400 | Below avg (91.4) | $189,622 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX | $184,250 | Average (98.3) | $187,482 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $167,090 | Below avg (90.8) | $184,040 |
| Wichita Falls, TX | $160,890 | Below avg (89.5) | $179,818 |
| Salt Lake City-Murray, UT | $174,410 | Average (97.1) | $179,536 |
| Lake Charles, LA | $153,830 | Below avg (87.1) | $176,644 |
| Midland, TX | $165,880 | Below avg (95.4) | $173,909 |
| Ogden, UT | $156,050 | Below avg (96.1) | $162,334 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX | $159,990 | Average (99.7) | $160,417 |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO | $168,740 | Above avg (105.8) | $159,538 |
| Lubbock, TX | $143,120 | Below avg (91.0) | $157,292 |
| New Orleans-Metairie, LA | $143,400 | Below avg (91.2) | $157,247 |
| Casper, WY | $141,000 | Below avg (92.5) | $152,370 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
Bachelor's degree
10-Year Growth
+1% (Slower than average)
Hourly Rate
~$68/hr
Monthly Income
~$11,773/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)