Burns & McDonnell is a leading engineering, architecture, construction, environmental, and consulting firm known for its strong employee ownership culture and competitive compensation packages. In 2025, the firm continues to be a top employer in the engineering and construction sector, drawing professionals from diverse disciplines. This article explores Burns & McDonnell salary trends, what affects earnings, and what prospective employees can expect in terms of career growth and compensation.
🔍 Average Salary at Burns & McDonnell in 2025
As of 2025, the average base salary at Burns & McDonnell ranges from $72,000 to $125,000 annually, depending on the role and experience level.
Here’s a breakdown by popular positions:
Entry-Level Engineer: $72,000 – $80,000
Project Engineer: $85,000 – $98,000
Senior Engineer: $100,000 – $120,000
Project Manager: $110,000 – $140,000
Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano role): $115,000 – $145,000
Department Manager: $130,000 – $165,000
Burns & McDonnell is also known for offering performance bonuses, profit-sharing, and employee stock ownership, which can significantly increase total compensation.
📈 Factors That Influence Salary
Several key factors contribute to salary variation at Burns & McDonnell:
Experience: Seniority significantly impacts pay. For example, a new graduate engineer may earn $75K, while someone with 10+ years of experience could exceed $120K.
Job Role: Specialized roles like SAP consultant, test engineers, or instructors (e.g., “SAPeloton” or “Latpen test” roles) often earn higher-than-average salaries, especially when aligned with high-demand projects.
Location: Salaries in cities like Houston, Denver, or Kansas City (where Burns & McDonnell is headquartered) are often adjusted for cost of living.
Certifications & Education: Professional Engineer (PE) licenses, PMP certifications, or advanced degrees (MS, MBA) can lead to higher-paying opportunities.
Performance: High performers often receive merit-based raises, bonuses, and leadership opportunities.
💼 Salary by Experience Level
Here’s how compensation typically scales by experience:
0–3 Years: $70,000 – $85,000
4–7 Years: $85,000 – $105,000
8–12 Years: $105,000 – $130,000
13+ Years: $130,000 – $160,000+
Note: Those in managerial roles or with cross-functional responsibilities may exceed this range.
🧾 Take-Home Pay for a $103,000 Salary
For professionals earning $103,000 annually, the estimated monthly take-home after federal taxes, social security, and benefits is approximately $6,200 to $6,800, depending on state tax rates and deductions such as 401(k) contributions or health insurance.
🧑💼 Benefits of Working at Burns & McDonnell
Burns & McDonnell is often ranked as a top place to work due to its employee-ownership structure and benefits, including:
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Competitive 401(k) with employer matching
Generous paid time off
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Professional development and tuition reimbursement
Flexible work arrangements and hybrid roles
🔮 Job Outlook and Market Trends in 2025
The job market for engineers and project managers continues to be strong and growing, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, and environmental services—key focus areas for Burns & McDonnell.
Trends to watch in 2025:
Sustainability and green energy projects are driving demand for environmental engineers.
Digital transformation, such as the integration of AI in construction planning, is increasing demand for tech-savvy professionals.
Federal infrastructure spending continues to create long-term project stability across multiple sectors.
🎓 Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
To maximize earnings and career growth at Burns & McDonnell, consider the following:
Professional Engineer (PE) License: Often leads to senior engineering roles and promotions.
Project Management Professional (PMP): Highly valued for project leads and managers.
LEED Certification: Important for sustainability and green design roles.
MBA or MS in Engineering: Often a differentiator for leadership roles.
📚 Final Thoughts
Burns & McDonnell offers a rewarding career path with competitive salaries, strong benefits, and room for growth. In 2025, its employee-first culture, robust project pipeline, and dedication to innovation make it a top choice for professionals in engineering, project management, and environmental sciences.
Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance into a senior or lead navigator role, Burns & McDonnell remains an industry leader in compensation and career development.