20 Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances | Top 5 Entry-Level Jobs

The best-paying jobs in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry include principal technical program manager and partner group program manager. They are eligible for high compensation because they have the required knowledge, training, and experience needed in the Consumer Electronics and Appliances industry. Additionally, they are highly relevant to the industry.

According to data from IBISWorld, the global Consumer Electronics manufacturing industry employs about 2.3 million people. The global Consumer Electronics market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% from 2021 to 2026. This growth will lead to the creation of more roles and employment opportunities.

What Do Consumer Electronics/Appliances Jobs Pay?

The average annual salary in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry is $62,000. However, entry-level positions such as quality test assurance working for a large company can earn $80,000 annually. As employees gain experience and move into more specialized roles, such as user experience designers, salaries can increase to around $100,000 to $120,000 per year.

15 Highest Paying Consumer Electronics/Appliances Jobs with Good Salaries

The Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry demand experts who can design, develop, and maintain their products. For those seeking a career in this field, several high-paying job opportunities offer both financial stability and opportunities for growth.

1. Principal Technical Program Manager

Average Annual Salary: $307,000

technical program manager | 20 Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances | Top 5 Entry-Level JobsA principal technical program manager leads complex programs that support a platform or product. They also form a portfolio of efforts to meet business goals and deliver the mission.

Principal technical program managers earn high salaries due to the complexity of the role and the high demand for their skills.

To get this role, you must possess a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the products they are working on. In addition, you need strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.

Employers seek candidates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field for this role.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth outlook for this role is 10% from 2021 to 2031. This job will also create many employment opportunities during this period.

2. Partner Group Program Manager

Average Annual Salary: $330,000

A partner group program manager develops partnerships and formulates strategies that deliver innovative solutions. They work with other staff to ensure that the company’s products meet the needs of customers and partners.

Partner group program managers earn high salaries because they drive revenue growth and build relationships with partners. To get this role, you must have strong communication, negotiation, and leadership skills. Additionally, you need experience in project management, business development, and strategic planning.

The educational requirements for this role differ, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field.

The job outlook for this position is positive, with an 8% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. There are currently 87,251 vacant positions in the US for this role. It will also produce many jobs in the future.

3. Director of Engineering

Average Annual Salary: $298,000

A director of engineering leads a team of engineers to design, develop, and improve products such as smartphones, laptops, and home Appliances. They also oversee the entire engineering process, from research and development to production and testing.

Directors of engineering in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector earn high salaries because of the level of responsibility and expertise required for the role. They possess strong leadership skills to manage a team of engineers and ensure their team completes projects on time and within budget.

Employers require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering or a related field for this role. However, some look for candidates with several years of experience in engineering and management.

The job outlook for directors of engineering is positive, with a growth rate of 3% from 2020 to 2030. It will also create 74,800 employment opportunities by 2029.

4. Senior Director

Average Annual Salary: $298,000

A senior director oversees the development and execution of product strategies, manages teams, and builds relationships with industry-leading brands and retailers.

They earn high salaries due to their extensive experience and expertise in the field. Employees in this position possess strong leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills.

Senior directors must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.

The job outlook for this role is positive, with a growth rate of 8% from 2020 to 2030. This position will create about 14,000 new jobs every year for the next 10 years.

5. Distinguished Technologist

Average Annual Salary: $287,000

A distinguished technologist leads research and development, identifies emerging technologies, and provides strategic guidance for product development and innovation. They also improve manufacturing processes, optimize supply chains, and enhance the user experience of products.

Distinguished technologists earn high salaries because they have a high level of expertise and experience and can lead and drive innovation.

To excel in this role, you must possess strong technical skills, including expertise in product design, manufacturing, and engineering. In addition, you need excellent leadership and communication abilities.

Educational requirements for this role include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field. However, employers prefer candidates with extensive industry experience and a proven track record of innovation and leadership.

The job outlook for distinguished technologists is generally positive. It will also create new jobs, depending on the pace of innovation and the demand for new products and technologies.

6. Director of Product Management

Average Annual Salary: $272,000

The director of product management conducts market research to identify customer needs and preferences and uses this information to guide product development. They also define product specifications and work with engineering and design teams to develop product prototypes.

The reason they earn high salaries is due to the high level of responsibility and strategic importance of their role.

Directors of product management must possess a deep understanding of the product development process and technical knowledge of the industry and products. They must also be able to analyze market and sales data to make informed decisions.

Educational requirements for this role are a bachelor’s degree in a related field and several years of experience in product management or a connected field. However, some employers prefer candidates with an MBA or other advanced degree.

The job outlook for directors of product management is positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it will grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030. This position will also create new employment opportunities in the near future.

7. Senior Fellow

Average Annual Salary: $259,000

A senior fellow in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector is highly experienced and an expert who leads research, development, and innovation projects within the company.

Senior Fellows earn high salaries because they possess a unique combination of skills, knowledge, and experience that is in high demand.

To get this role, you need a strong technical background in engineering or a related field and extensive experience in research and development. In addition, you must possess a deep understanding of the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry and market trends.

Many employers require a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field, along with many years of experience in research and development.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this role will grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030. It will also produce many jobs, depending on market demand, technological advancements, and the overall state of the economy.

8. Senior Data Scientist

Average Annual Salary: $252,000

A senior data scientist generates and analyzes large amounts of data from the company’s products, services, and customers. They use statistical and machine learning techniques to extract insights, identify trends, and make predictions to improve product performance and customer satisfaction.

Senior data scientists earn high salaries because they have expert skills in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data analysis.

To get this role, you must possess strong programming skills in languages like Python or R and experience with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch. Additionally, expertise in statistical modeling and data analysis and knowledge of big data technologies like Hadoop and Spark are relevant.

Companies look for individuals who have a strong educational background in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or a related field. They prefer candidates with a Master’s or Ph.D. degree with several years of experience in a related role.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for this role will grow by 36% from 2021 to 2031. It will produce 13,500 jobs in the future because companies increasingly rely on data-driven insights to stay competitive.

9. Principal Cloud Solutions Architect

Average Annual Salary: $209,000

A principal cloud solutions architect designs and implements cloud-based solutions. They enable companies to efficiently store, manage, and analyze large amounts of data generated by their products and services. They identify business requirements, architect scalable solutions, and see to the smooth integration of cloud technologies.

Principal cloud solutions architects earn high salaries because they are experts in cloud computing, infrastructure design, and software development, which are in high demand.

Understanding cloud computing platforms and services and having experience in cloud infrastructure design and deployment are relevant skills for this role. Also, employers look out for people with proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript.

Many employers require a Master’s or Ph.D. degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. However, some prefer candidates with several years of experience in a related role.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for this role will grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030. It will also produce about 20,000 jobs every year for the next 10 years.

10. Senior Manager of Hardware Engineering

Average Annual Salary: $194,000

Senior Hardware Engineering Manager | 20 Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances | Top 5 Entry-Level JobsA senior manager of hardware engineering in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector provides technical and organizational leadership in hardware engineering. They also lead the development of hardware products, manage their team, and ensure that products meet quality, safety, and user experience standards.

Senior managers of hardware engineering earn high salaries because they have extensive experience in hardware engineering.

To get this role, you need a strong understanding of hardware engineering principles and technologies and experience in hardware product design, development, and testing.

Employers want individuals with a Master’s or Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Some companies prefer candidates with 5-7 years of experience in a related role.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for this role will grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030. It will also produce 74,800 jobs by 2029.

11. Machine Learning Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $153,000

A machine learning engineer applies machine learning techniques to develop intelligent products and services. They also improve the efficiency of a refrigerator to optimize the user experience of a smart home device.

Machine learning engineers earn high salaries because they possess professional skills that are in high demand.

To get this role, you must possess a deep understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data analysis. In addition, experience working with large datasets, cloud computing platforms, and programming languages such as Python and R is necessary.

The educational requirements for this role are a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related field. However, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or a Ph.D.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for this position will grow by 11% from 2019 to 2029. Due to the demand for machine learning engineers, there will be many new job openings in the next 10 years.

12. Hardware Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $126,000

A hardware engineer researches, designs, develops, and tests computer systems and components. They also work on the development of hardware components for electronic devices under the direction of their manager.

Hardware engineers earn high salaries because they possess skills that are in high demand. Expertise in electrical and computer engineering and an understanding of hardware design principles and manufacturing processes are necessary for this role.

Employers require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical or computer engineering or a related field. Many employers also prefer candidates with experience in the industry or with specific technologies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for this role will grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029. It will also create about 5,000 jobs every year for the next 10 years.

13. Firmware Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $123,000

A firmware engineer designs, develops, and tests firmware for electronic devices such as small kitchen Appliances, power tools, and home Appliances. They also work on integrated software design, development, and debugging on ARM-based platforms.

Firmware engineers earn high salaries because of the special skills and knowledge necessary for the job. To become a firmware engineer in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector, a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field is required.

A master’s degree in a related field is the minimum educational requirement for this role. However, employers prefer candidates with 7+ years of experience in Consumer Electronics, power tools, home Appliances, or similar relevant industries.

The job outlook for firmware engineers is positive, with a growth rate of 5% from 2019 to 2029. It will also create a huge number of jobs in the future due to the growing demand for electronic devices and Appliances.

14. User Experience Designer

Average Annual Salary: $116,000

A user experience (UX) designer designs the user interface (UI) of smart Appliances. They ensure that the UI has a good look and feel with animation, transitions, and complex graphics. Additionally, they capture requirements, architect software, build controls, and conduct usability testing on stylistic features.

UX designers earn high salaries because they require a higher level of skills and expertise. Relevant skills for this role include prototyping, wireframing, user flows, mockups, visual design, design software, user research, and collaborative abilities.

Many companies hire individuals with a bachelor’s degree in design, human-computer interaction, or a related field. Some prefer candidates who have experience in UI/UX design, prototyping, and user research.

The job outlook for UX designers is positive, with a growth rate of 23% from 2021 to 2031. It will still create many employment opportunities in the next 10 years.

15. Operations Manager

Average Annual Salary: $116,000

Operations Manager | 20 Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances | Top 5 Entry-Level JobsAn operations manager in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector plans and manages day-to-day activities to ensure that they run effectively. They employ various steps and guides to meet customer expectations regarding cost-effectiveness.

Operations managers earn high salaries due to their expertise in operations management. To get this role, you need excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Also, you must have experience in planning and managing operations and knowledge of the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry.

A bachelor’s degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field is the basic requirement for this role. The job outlook for this role is positive, with a growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029. It will create about 9,000 jobs every year during this period.

5 Highest Paying Entry-Level Consumer Electronics/Appliances Jobs with Good Salaries

1. Quality Assurance Tester

Average Annual Salary: $80,000

A quality assurance tester tests products, identifies defects, and ensures that they meet quality standards. They use a variety of tools and techniques to detect defects and report them to the development team.

Quality assurance testers earn high salaries because they ensure that companies’ products meet the required standards. They possess strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team environment.

The minimum educational requirement for this role is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

The job outlook for quality assurance testers is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 6% increase in employment between 2019 and 2029. This role will create many employment opportunities within this time frame.

2. Business Intelligence Analyst

Average Annual Salary: $76,000

A business intelligence analyst analyzes data and provides insights to help businesses make informed decisions. They also create visualizations and present their findings to management.

Business intelligence analysts help companies make data-driven decisions that can improve business performance and increase revenue. This is why they earn high salaries.

Individuals vying for this role must have analytical skills, proficiency in data analysis tools, excellent communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.

A bachelor’s degree in business, computer science, or a related field is the minimum educational requirement for this role. However, some employers prefer candidates with 5 years of experience working in a related sector.

The BLS predicts employment growth of 16% for this position from 2019 to 2029. This role will produce many new jobs in the next 10 years.

3. Technical Writers

Average Annual Salary: $65,000

A technical writer creates instruction manuals, how-to guides, and other supporting documentation to help users understand how to use a product or service. They work with professionals to ensure the accuracy and clarity of technical documentation.

Technical writers earn high salaries because their documentation guides customers in using the company’s products. To become a technical writer, you must have excellent written communication and writing skills and technical knowledge.

Many employers require a bachelor’s degree in English, technical writing, or a related field for a technical writing role.

The job outlook for technical writers is positive, with the BLS forecasting a 7% increase in employment between 2019 and 2029. It will produce about 15,200 jobs within this period.

4. Electronics Technicians

Average Annual Salary: $63,600

An electronics technician assembles, tests, repairs, and maintains electronic equipment with an understanding of electronic components and systems.

Electronic technicians earn high salaries due to a shortage of electricians, which has led to high payments for their profession. To get this role, you need engineering design, communication, problem-solving, customer service, testing, and troubleshooting abilities.

Employers require a high school diploma with relevant work experience for this role. However, some companies prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in any engineering field.

The job outlook for electronics technicians will decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. It will produce about 79,900 openings each year, on average, over the next 10 years.

5. Technical Support Specialist

Average Annual Salary: $62,000

A technical support specialist provides technical assistance and support to customers who are experiencing technical issues with various products or services. They diagnose and troubleshoot technical problems, document customer interactions, and provide solutions or recommendations to customers.

Technical support specialists earn high salaries because they ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty. To get this role, you must possess technical proficiency, excellent communication skills, customer service skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to multitask.

A high school diploma or equivalent is a minimum requirement for this role. However, some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree or technical certification.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a growth rate of 8% from 2019 to 2029. It will also produce many new jobs within this period.

 How to Apply and Get a High Paying Job in Consumer Electronics/Appliances?

If you are interested in pursuing a high-paying job in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry, there are several steps you can take to improve your chances of success. With the right approach, you can increase your chances of securing a job that offers a competitive salary and growth opportunities.

5 practical steps to applying and getting a high-paying job in Consumer Electronics/Appliances:

1. Gain relevant education and experience.

Pursue education and gain experience in fields such as engineering, computer science, data analysis, and design, among others. Relevant experience can come from internships, apprenticeships, or personal projects.

2. Develop key skills

Employers in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry value skills such as project management, problem-solving, communication, and creativity. Focus on honing these skills and seek opportunities to showcase them.

3. Network with industry professionals

Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with professionals on social media platforms such as LinkedIn. Networking can help you learn about job opportunities and get your foot in the door.

4. Research potential employers

Research companies that you are interested in working for and learn about their values, products, and culture. This can help you tailor your job applications and interviews to each specific company.

5. Apply for jobs

Once you have gained relevant education and experience, developed key skills, networked with industry professionals, and researched potential employers, start applying for jobs. Utilize job search websites, company career pages, and recruitment agencies to find suitable job opportunities.

Where to Find the Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances?

The Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry is a highly competitive field with many opportunities for individuals seeking high-paying jobs. To find the best-paying jobs in this industry, it is important to know the specific places to look.

5 top job boards to find the highest-paying roles in Consumer Electronics/Appliances:

1. IEEE Job Site

This website is run by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. They post job postings for engineering and technology professionals. It allows job seekers to browse by job type, location, and industry. This makes it easier to find positions that match their skills and experience.

2. Consumer Technology Association (CTA)

The CTA is an industry trade association for consumer technology companies. Its job board features entry-level to executive roles in engineering, marketing, and sales. It also offers resources for job seekers, such as tips for interviewing and negotiating job offers.

3. Appliance Service New

This website features positions for appliance repair technicians, and management and administrative positions in appliance service companies. The Appliance Service News job board allows job seekers to search for jobs by job type, location, and company.

4. Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports is a nonprofit organization that conducts product testing and research. It also has a job board for testing, data analysis, editorial, and writing positions. Job seekers can use it to look for employment opportunities.

5. The Verge

The Verge is a popular technology news and review website that posts job listings. It features positions in editorial, writing, video production, and social media, with a focus on consumer technology and Appliances. It also provides tips and advice on how to stand out in a crowded job market.

What are the Skills Required to Get a High Paying Job in Consumer Electronics/Appliances?

The Consumer Electronics and Appliances industry is highly competitive with many available jobs. To secure a high-paying job, candidates need to possess relevant skills.

5 top-level skills needed to get the best-paying jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances:

1. Technical expertise

Having technical expertise is necessary for success in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry. To work here, you need a strong understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles. In addition, experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software and other relevant tools is essential.

2. Project management

The ability to manage projects effectively is important in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector. They need candidates who can coordinate cross-functional teams, develop project plans, monitor progress, and manage budgets.

3. Analytical skills

Analytical skills are necessary in this industry. Employees must be able to analyze data, interpret technical specifications, and make decisions based on the results.

4. Sales and marketing skills

Sales and marketing skills are essential for people who are working in product development, promotion, and distribution. They know how to develop marketing strategies, identify target markets, and communicate product benefits to customers.

5. Customer service skills

Employers want candidates who can provide excellent customer service. Candidates should be able to understand customer needs, respond to inquiries, and resolve issues in a timely and effective manner. 

Top 10 Companies with the Highest-Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances

Consumer Electronics And Appliances are highly essential in our daily lives. This is why companies are willing to invest generously in their employees by offering some of the most competitive salaries and benefits packages in the job market.

The top 10 companies with the highest salaries in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances Industry:

  • Amazon
  • Microsoft
  • Google
  • Intel
  • Sony
  • Hewlett-Packard
  • Dell
  • Philips
  • Samsung
  • Panasonic

 Table showing top 10 companies with their highest paying roles and salaries in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector:

Name of CompanySize (Number of employees)Highest paying roleSalary/year
Amazon1,335,000Principal Technical Program Manager$307,000
Microsoft181,000Partner Group Program Manager$330,000
Google135,000Director of Engineering$298,000
Intel110,800Senior Director$298,000
Sony114,400Senior Director of Engineering$289,000
Hewlett-Packard302,000Distinguished Technologist$287,000
Dell165,000Senior Director of Engineering$266,000
Philips80,000Senior Director of Engineering$264,000
Samsung308,745Senior Director of Engineering$259,000
Panasonic274,143Senior Director of Engineering$255,000

Which Consumer Electronics/Appliances company pays the highest salary?

Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Intel, and Sony pay the highest salaries in the Consumer Electronic/Appliances sector.

What are the Factors Determining an Employee’s Salary in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances Industry?

The Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry has a range of factors that can influence an employee’s salary. Knowing these factors will help job seekers discuss better salaries and make good decisions.

5 major factors determining an employee’s salary in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances sector:

1. Education and experience

Higher levels of education and more years of experience pay higher salaries in the industry. For example, an engineer with a Ph.D. and 10 years of experience will earn more than an engineer with only a bachelor’s degree and 2 years of experience. Also, an individual with a certification in a specialized area will get a higher salary than someone without this credential.

2. Job roles and responsibilities

Different job roles and responsibilities within the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry can have different salary ranges. For example, sales professionals who generate high revenue or executives who oversee large teams earn more than administrative staff or entry-level employees.

3. Geographic location

Salaries differ according to geographic location. For example, salaries in high-cost-of-living cities like San Francisco or New York City are higher than those in smaller cities or rural areas. Additionally, areas with a high demand for experts offer higher salaries due to increased competition for talent.

4. Company size

The size of the company also impacts salary ranges in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry. Larger companies have more resources and a greater ability to pay higher salaries and offer better benefits packages. However, smaller companies offer other perks, such as greater autonomy or a more flexible work environment.

5. Industry demand

The demand for experts in the industry also influences salaries. During times of high demand, like when new products are coming out, salaries will be higher to attract top talent. Conversely, when there’s low demand or economic downturns, salaries will be lower due to reduced competition for professionals.

Conclusion: Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances

The Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry offers many high-paying job opportunities for individuals with the right skills and qualifications. By using job search websites like CTA and Consumer Reports, applicants will find job openings and research salaries within the industry. However, securing a high-paying job requires staying up-to-date with industry trends and continuously developing their skills. Individuals can also position themselves for a successful and rewarding work life in this sector.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Paying Jobs in Consumer Electronics/Appliances

What is the highest paying job in Consumer Electronics/Appliances?

Principal technical program manager is the highest paying job in the Consumer Electronics/Appliances industry.