How much does a fresh M&E PE earn?
 

Hi all, I recently started working in a small M&E consultancy firm, and the pay isn't terrible, but it is slightly below average. (I graduated from NUS Mech Engg and my peers are mostly earning 3.5k while I'm earning $3.1k) My company expects me to sit for the first PE exam next year, and hope that I can get my PE status asap.

I keep hearing that PEs can earn a good salary, but how much is good? The route there is tough and I'm not sure if I'm really cut out for it.

I've tried asking colleagues but they never gave any hard numbers, just always saying that it'll be worth it when I get my license. So, if anyone here could give their input on how much people typically earn right after getting their PE license, or the general job progression, that would really be useful! Thank you!

3.1k sounds pretty normal to me. Unless public sector or big mncs, not too many co. will offer 3.5k for a freshie.

First time I'm hearing PEs can earn "good salary" (I take it you mean can make more than a normal local eng grad), I don't think that's the case.

PE dont necessarily earn more and higher, unless you are the boss of your own consulting firm. If you are only an employee, you probably will earn slightly more as you are certifying a project and there is legal responsibilities if things go wrong. In engineering, there is no such things as earning high. You prolly earn what you put in for, or lesser. Unless your peers in other sectors.

PE cert is a legal requirement to sign off certain processes, I would classify it as almost compulsory if you choose a projects career. It won't add any extra pay just like a ACCA or CFA won't either, it's just so common that it is expected norm in the industry.

In short, you need to get certified if you want to continue in this path. And no, it's nothing to shout about and won't make you a super star with high pay.

i asked around.
It is around 5.5k to 7k for a fresh Mech PE with at least 6 years of exp.

If you have additional skillset and some reputation , it may be 7K plus.

If you are a special bred of PE/AE with valuable experience in non building services , may reach 10K.

If you are a loser fresh PE , it will be below 5.5k.

Hope i answered some doubts.