FAQ
Engineering Manager FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an engineering manager.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an engineering manager: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about engineering managers
How do you become an engineering manager?
Usually after years as an engineer and project lead.
Is pay high?
Yes, BLS reports very high median pay.
Do managers still do engineering?
Less hands-on work, more reviewing and deciding.
How much does an engineering manager make?
The median annual wage for engineering managers was $171,270 ($82.34 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $120,810 and the highest 10% earned more than $262,760.
How long does it take to become an engineering manager?
Most people need about 5+ years of engineering experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in engineering and five or more years of experience are typical.
Do you need a degree to be an engineering manager?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is engineering manager a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.5% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 14,900 openings each year. Upsides include very high pay; a common challenge is that less hands-on engineering.
What skills does an engineering manager need?
Key technical skills include engineering expertise, project management, budgeting, and design review. Employers also value leadership, communication, and decision-making.
What certifications are available for engineering managers?
Common credentials include PE license, PMP, MBA or MS in engineering management, and Six Sigma. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Engineering Manager fit quiz, compare with Mechanical Engineer, or explore Engineering Manager training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-9041 (Architectural and engineering managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Architectural and engineering managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.