Salary Of Electrical Engineer In Philippines

ByRonan

Electrical engineering is one of the country’s most in-demand technical professions, with opportunities in construction, utilities, electronics, renewable energy, and manufacturing. According to data from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and recent job market surveys, electrical engineers in the Philippines earn salaries that range from entry-level pay close to ₱18,000 per month to senior-level compensation that can reach ₱70,000 or more.

Electrical Engineer Salary

Electrical Engineer Average Salary

The median monthly salary for electrical engineers in the Philippines is around ₱30,000–₱40,000, based on data from the Bureau of Local Employment (as of 2024). However, this figure can rise significantly depending on specialization and years of experience.

  • Entry-level (0–2 years): ₱18,000–₱25,000 per month

  • Mid-level (3–7 years): ₱30,000–₱45,000 per month

  • Senior-level (8+ years): ₱50,000–₱70,000+ per month

Overseas opportunities are also attractive for Filipino electrical engineers, with salaries in countries like Saudi Arabia, Japan, and the UAE ranging from ₱90,000 to ₱200,000 monthly equivalent.

Salary by Industry

Electrical engineers are needed across multiple industries, and salaries vary:

  • Construction and Real Estate: ₱25,000–₱40,000

  • Manufacturing: ₱30,000–₱50,000

  • Utilities (Power/Water): ₱35,000–₱60,000

  • Oil, Gas, and Energy: ₱50,000–₱70,000+

  • Electronics/Technology: ₱28,000–₱45,000

If you’re considering renewable energy, solar and wind power companies in the Philippines are projected to expand rapidly by 2030, which means higher demand and better pay for electrical engineers with green tech skills.

Factors That Influence Salary

Several elements affect how much you’ll earn as an electrical engineer:

  1. Experience and Skills: Senior engineers with project management or design expertise command higher salaries.

  2. Industry Sector: Engineers in energy, oil and gas, or manufacturing usually earn more than those in smaller construction firms.

  3. Licensure: Passing the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) board exam boosts your employability and salary.

  4. Location: Engineers in Metro Manila and major industrial hubs like CALABARZON typically earn more than those in rural provinces.

  5. Certifications and Training: Specialized certifications in renewable energy systems, automation, or safety can raise your pay scale.

Government Salary Grades for Electrical Engineers

In the Philippines, engineers who work for government agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Energy (DOE), local government units (LGUs), and state universities follow the Salary Standardization Law (SSL). This law sets fixed pay scales based on Salary Grades (SG).

Typical Entry and Progression

  • Engineer I (SG 12–13): Around ₱29,165 to ₱31,320 per month (as of 2024 rates).

  • Engineer II (SG 16): Around ₱36,619 per month.

  • Engineer III (SG 19): Around ₱46,725 per month.

  • Engineer IV and above (SG 22–24): ₱71,000–₱88,000 per month.

Benefits in Government Roles

In addition to the base pay, government-employed electrical engineers often enjoy:

  • Mid-Year and Year-End Bonuses (each roughly equivalent to one month’s salary).

  • 13th Month Pay.

  • Hazard Pay or Special Allowances (for those working in high-risk environments like energy or utilities).

  • Step Increments every 3 years of satisfactory service.

  • GSIS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG benefits, which are standard for government workers.

Overtime and Allowances

Beyond the base salary, electrical engineers in the Philippines often receive additional pay and benefits that increase their overall earnings.

  • Overtime Pay: Under the Labor Code, overtime is paid at 125% of the hourly rate on regular days and up to 200% on holidays. For example, an engineer earning ₱35,000 monthly can earn an extra ₱500–₱1,000 per day through overtime.

  • Hazard Pay: Common in power plants, utilities, and construction sites, usually 15–20% of base salary.

  • Allowances: Many firms provide ₱2,000–₱5,000 monthly for transportation, meals, or housing, especially for site-based roles.

  • Bonuses: Project completion or performance bonuses can equal half to a full month’s salary.

These extras can raise an engineer’s take-home pay by 10–30%, making a significant difference in real earnings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electrical engineering a high-paying job in the Philippines?

Electrical engineering offers competitive salaries compared to other technical professions. While entry-level pay starts modestly, senior engineers in specialized industries can earn ₱70,000 or more per month.

Do licensed electrical engineers earn more?

Yes. Licensed engineers generally earn 20–30% higher salaries than non-licensed practitioners because of the added credibility and responsibility.

What is the demand for electrical engineers in the Philippines?

High. With infrastructure projects, renewable energy expansion, and manufacturing growth, DOLE has consistently listed electrical engineering as a priority occupation.

Can electrical engineers work abroad?

Absolutely. Many Filipino engineers are hired in the Middle East, Japan, and other countries, often with salaries three to five times higher than local rates.

How long does it take to become an electrical engineer?

You’ll typically spend 5 years completing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), followed by preparing for and passing the PRC board exam.

If you’re pursuing a career as an electrical engineer in the Philippines, you can look forward to stable employment and good growth potential. While starting salaries may feel modest, your pay will increase steadily with experience, licensure, and specialization. The demand for skilled engineers is strong both locally and internationally, giving you opportunities to build a rewarding and financially secure career.

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