Industrial Engineers Salary in San Jose, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA

Median annual salary $136,290 +34.8% vs national
Median hourly $65.53
10th percentile $88,680
90th percentile $210,070
Employed locally 3,850
National median $101,140

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Industrial Engineers
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San Jose, CA
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    In San Jose, CA, industrial engineers earn a median annual salary of $136,290, which is significantly higher than the national median of $101,140 for this occupation. This local earning potential positions them favorably within the regional economy, where the area's median household income stands at $157,444. Industrial engineers in San Jose thus typically surpass the average local household earnings by approximately $21%, indicating a strong demand and competitive market for their skills in this tech-centric region.

    For entry-level industrial engineers in San Jose, salaries begin around the 10th percentile mark of $88,680, reflecting lower compensation levels typical for those with less experience or educational qualifications. Conversely, experienced workers can earn up to the 90th percentile at approximately $210,070 annually, driven largely by factors such as advanced technical skills, leadership roles, and specialized expertise in complex projects. This significant salary range highlights the value placed on accumulated knowledge and experience within the field, with higher earnings often linked to responsibilities that include optimizing production processes, improving systems efficiency, and leading innovation initiatives.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $88,680
    25th
    $109,350
    50th (median)
    $136,290
    75th
    $169,700
    90th
    $210,070

    San Jose economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $157,444 2023 • Census ACS
    Industrial Engineers salary vs area income 87% Median Industrial Engineers salary is 13% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Industrial Engineers make per hour in San Jose?

    The median hourly wage for Industrial Engineers in San Jose, CA is $65.53, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $99.13 or more per hour.

    Is San Jose above or below average for Industrial Engineers salaries?

    The median Industrial Engineers salary in San Jose, CA is 34.8% above the national median of $101,140. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Industrial Engineers in San Jose?

    Entry-level Industrial Engineers (10th percentile) earn around $88,680 per year in San Jose, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $109,350.