Ok, lots of questions, here are my answers:
I understand there is no way to verify truthfulness of responses and that everything depends on everything else, location, industry, etc. Also, this has to do with getting ahead in your work, because compensation is a pretty good indicator of how succesful you are. Cross referencing your compensation with others is usefull in my opinion, hence the post.
I started for 37k out of school, but that was in dec 2003 when there were lots of guys with more experience out of work. Also, I went to a state school and got decent grades.
After 6 months, they raised me to 40k despite promises of more money. I left my first job after 14 months employment for a 50k salary. I was raised to 55 after a year, then to 60k after another year. I recently took a new job for 70k.
I worked in south florida for my last employer where cost of living is high. I now work in central texas where cost of living is a lot lower. I work in the municiple wastewater industry doing applications, technical sales, and design work.
It is interesting that some people said I'm doing well and others said I should be making more. I think that depends on industry and specific position and skill set. In what I consider 'real' engineering industries like aerospace, chemical plants, and stuff like that I think salaries are higher. For my line of work I think I'm doing ok, and I'm happy to make as much as I do.
I work 40 hours per week or sometimes less and have excellent benefits. I consider that a major benefit.
Thanks for your replies. I like this forum because it has a pretty good cross section of engineers from different industries.
