Quick Comparison
Devops Engineer
$113,333
avg. annual salary
Data Engineer
pays more on average
Data Engineer
$120,133
avg. annual salary
As the tech landscape evolves, the roles of DevOps Engineer and Data Engineer have become increasingly vital in organizations. Both positions play significant roles, but their responsibilities and salary expectations vary. DevOps Engineers focus on the integration of development and operations, ensuring seamless software delivery and reliability. In contrast, Data Engineers are responsible for building and maintaining systems that allow data collection, storage, and processing. Understanding the salary differences between these two roles can help you make informed career decisions. In this guide, we'll explore the average salaries, benefits, and career paths for both DevOps and Data Engineers, empowering you to choose the right direction for your future.
Salary by Experience Level
Devops Engineer Entry
$80,000
starting salary
Data Engineer Entry
$84,800
starting salary
Salary Difference
$6,800
avg. difference (6%)
Average Salaries
In 2025, the average salary for a DevOps Engineer is projected to be around $120,000 per year, with a range between $100,000 and $140,000 depending on experience and location. Meanwhile, Data Engineers can expect an average salary of approximately $115,000, with a range of $95,000 to $135,000.
Overall, the salary disparity is minimal, but factors such as industry demand and specific skill sets can cause variations.
Salary by Experience Level
For entry-level positions, DevOps Engineers typically earn between $80,000 to $100,000, while Data Engineers start with salaries ranging from $75,000 to $95,000. As professionals gain more experience, mid-level DevOps Engineers can expect to earn between $100,000 to $130,000, while mid-level Data Engineers see salaries ranging from $95,000 to $125,000.
Senior-level positions also show competitive salaries, where DevOps Engineers can earn up to $160,000 and Data Engineers can reach up to $150,000.
Benefits and Perks
Both DevOps and Data Engineers often receive similar benefits, which may include health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans with matching contributions, stock options, and remote work opportunities. Also, companies may provide education stipends for professional development, which is important in both fast-evolving fields.
Career Paths
DevOps Engineers often progress to roles such as Senior DevOps Engineer, DevOps Manager, or even CTO. On the other hand, Data Engineers may move into Data Architect or Data Science roles.
Both career paths offer opportunities for advancement and specialization, making them attractive choices for technology professionals.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence salaries for both DevOps and Data Engineers. Industry demand plays a significant role, with sectors like finance and healthcare offering competitive salaries.
Geographic location is another critical factor, as tech hubs like San Francisco and New York tend to pay higher wages. Also, specific skills, such as proficiency in cloud services for DevOps Engineers or expertise in machine learning frameworks for Data Engineers, can yield higher pay.