Professional Engineer (PE) Salary and Job Market Outlook in Oklahoma

What is the average salary for Professional Engineers (PEs) in Oklahoma?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for Professional Engineers (PEs) in Oklahoma is $88,030 as of May 2020.

Are there variations in PE salaries based on geographic regions in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are variations in PE salaries based on geographic regions in Oklahoma. Generally, salaries in the larger cities such as Tulsa and Oklahoma City tend to be higher than those in smaller towns and rural areas. In addition, salaries tend to be higher in the more affluent areas of the state.

What factors, such as experience, specialization, or market conditions, can impact PE salary in Oklahoma?

1. Experience: PE salaries in Oklahoma tend to increase with experience. Those who have more years of experience in the field are likely to command higher salaries.

2. Specialization: PE professionals with specialized knowledge or skills in certain areas may be able to command higher salaries than those without such expertise.

3. Market Conditions: Just like most jobs, the salary of a PE professional in Oklahoma can be affected by the market conditions in the area. If there is a higher demand for PE services, salaries may be higher than if the market were more saturated with professionals offering similar services.

4. Education Level: In Oklahoma, PEs with higher education levels, such as a Master’s degree or certification, may command higher salaries than those with less education.

How does the salary for PEs compare to the national average for the profession in Oklahoma?

The median annual salary for physical education teachers in Oklahoma is $40,720, which is slightly lower than the national average of $45,490.

Are there opportunities for PEs to earn overtime pay, bonuses, or commissions in addition to a base salary in Oklahoma?

Yes, PEs in Oklahoma are eligible for overtime pay, bonuses, and commissions in addition to their base salary. In some cases, bonuses are based on individual performance and can be as much as 20% of the base salary. Commissions may also be available to PEs depending on their job duties.

What are the typical work schedules for PEs, and do they include options for part-time or flexible hours in Oklahoma?

Most Physical Education (PE) positions in Oklahoma are full-time, with a standard 40-hour work week. However, there are some part-time and flexible hours opportunities available. PE teachers typically work during the school day, although some schools may offer after-school activities and intramural sports programs for which PE teachers might be asked to work additional hours. Additionally, many schools hire PE teachers to coach sports teams, which require additional hours for practice and game days.

Is there a demand for PEs, and how does the job market outlook look for this profession in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a demand for physical education professionals in Oklahoma. According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, the job market outlook for physical education professionals in Oklahoma is strong. The state is expected to see 3.2% job growth in physical education and coaching positions from 2018 to 2028. In addition, the median annual salary for physical education professionals in Oklahoma is $44,370.

Are there specific areas of engineering work, such as civil, mechanical, or electrical, with higher demand for PEs in Oklahoma?

The demand for PEs in Oklahoma varies depending on the specific industry, but some areas with higher demand for PEs in Oklahoma include civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. There is also high demand for chemical engineers, petroleum engineers, and environmental engineers.

What is the employment growth rate for PEs, and are there expected shortages or surpluses in the workforce in Oklahoma?

The current employment growth rate for professional engineers in Oklahoma is 6.2%. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a shortage of professional engineers in Oklahoma through 2024. The projected shortage is due to a combination of several factors, including an increase in demand for engineering services in the state, an aging workforce, and a decrease in the number of workers entering the profession.

Are there resources, such as job listings, networking events, or engineering associations, available to help immigrants find job opportunities as PEs in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are resources available to help immigrants find job opportunities as PEs in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) is a great resource for job listings, networking events, and information about engineering associations in the state. Additionally, many universities in the state offer career services and resources that could be helpful for immigrants looking for engineers positions. Finally, there are numerous job boards and job search websites that can help connect immigrants to potential employers and job openings in the engineering field.

What are the employment benefits, such as healthcare, retirement, or bonuses, typically offered to PEs in Oklahoma?

Employment benefits offered to PEs in Oklahoma vary depending upon the specific employer. However, many employers offer health insurance, a retirement plan, paid vacation and sick time, bonuses, and other perks. Additionally, some employers provide educational benefits, such as tuition reimbursement or professional development opportunities. To be sure of the exact benefits offered by a particular employer, it is best to check with the human resources department or the individual hiring manager.

Are there opportunities for bilingual or multilingual PEs to serve diverse communities and clients in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are certainly opportunities for bilingual or multilingual PEs to serve diverse communities and clients in Oklahoma. Many medical and health organizations in the state offer services in multiple languages, and PEs with language skills can play an important role in helping these organizations better meet the needs of their clients. Additionally, many schools throughout the state are diverse and may be in need of PEs with language skills to help meet the educational needs of students from different backgrounds. Finally, there are many universities and colleges in Oklahoma that offer language courses and programs that can benefit PEs who are seeking to expand their language capabilities.

What are the ethical and professional responsibilities of PEs, especially when dealing with diverse clients and communities in Oklahoma?

1. Respect the rights and dignity of all people.

2. Treat all clients, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, age, or other factors, with respect and dignity.

3. Understand and respect local customs and cultures.

4. Maintain client confidentiality at all times.

5. Provide accommodations to those with special needs, if requested.

6. Educate clients about their rights and responsibilities as citizens of Oklahoma.

7. Remain aware of current research and evidence-based practices to ensure effective and safe physical therapy services for all clients.

8. Respect the right of all clients to autonomy and informed decision making when it comes to their health care decisions.

9. Maintain a professional attitude when providing physical therapy services in the state of Oklahoma.

10. Follow all laws of the state of Oklahoma with regards to physical therapy services and practice.

Are there opportunities for career growth and advancement for PEs in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are opportunities for career growth and advancement for PEs in Oklahoma. Many PEs pursue certifications that can open the door to higher-level positions or even open their own consulting firm. Some PEs may also choose to pursue additional education such as an MBA or other related degrees, which can also open the door to additional opportunities.

What are the opportunities for immigrant PEs to open their own engineering firms or consulting businesses, and what are the associated costs and requirements in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, immigrants with Professional Engineer (PE) credentials can open their own engineering firms or consulting businesses. The cost to obtain a Professional Engineering license in Oklahoma is $250. There are also additional fees for PE applicants to become a member of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and to acquire a Certificate of Authorization (COA). The requirements to obtain an Oklahoma PE license include passing the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, obtaining relevant work experience, and completing a criminal background check.

In addition to the above costs and requirements, immigrant entrepreneurs who wish to open an engineering firm in Oklahoma must meet the state’s business registration requirements. They must register their business with the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office, obtain an Employer Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service, and comply with local licensing ordinances. Depending on the type of business entity they form, there may be additional filing and registration charges associated with setting up shop in Oklahoma.

Finally, it is important to remember that starting a business can be both a costly and time-consuming process. Immigrant engineers should conduct thorough research in order to determine which route is best suited for their needs.

Are there specific resources or programs for immigrant PEs to gain additional certifications or specializations in Oklahoma?

There are no specific resources or programs for immigrant PEs to gain additional certifications or specializations in Oklahoma. However, the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) provides an online search tool to help individuals locate professional licensure boards, which may provide resources for advancing a professional engineering career in Oklahoma. Additionally, professional organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers may also provide resources and guidance for engineers seeking to enhance their professional qualifications.

What are the potential legal implications or challenges immigrants may face when pursuing a career as a PE, especially in the context of immigration status, in Oklahoma?

Immigrants who are interested in pursuing a career as a PE in Oklahoma may face legal implications or challenges related to their immigration status. Since PEs are required to be licensed and certified to practice, having appropriate legal status in the U.S. is an important factor for immigrants to take into consideration. Additionally, immigrants may find it difficult to find employment as a PE without current authorization to work in the U.S. Additionally, if an immigrant is granted licensure and certification, it is possible for state or federal law enforcement agencies to investigate the immigrant’s immigration status if they are found to be working without authorization. It is important for immigrants interested in pursuing a career as a PE in Oklahoma to understand the legal implications in order to ensure that their career path is not hindered by any legal or immigration issues.

Are there options for language assistance, cultural competency training, or support for immigrants who may face language or cultural barriers during engineering work in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are options available for language assistance, cultural competency training, or support for immigrants who may face language or cultural barriers during engineering work in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors provides continuing education to help engineers increase their cultural competency. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce offers an English as a Second Language Training program, which provides language and cultural competency training to foreign-born individuals. Additionally, some universities in Oklahoma offer dual-language engineering programs that provide students with an opportunity to complete their studies in both English and Spanish.

Are there organizations, associations, or online platforms that provide job listings and career resources specifically for PEs in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are several organizations and online platforms that provide job listings and career resources specifically for PEs in Oklahoma. The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) is a good starting point as they have a job board offering career opportunities in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers, Architects, Professional Land Surveyors and Landscape Architects also provides resources for PEs in Oklahoma. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Oklahoma City Chapter also offers job postings and career resources. Additionally, Indeed and Glassdoor are two popular online platforms that offer job listings and career resources for PEs in Oklahoma.

What are the opportunities for immigrant PEs to serve underserved communities or engage in philanthropic engineering work in Oklahoma?

There are a number of opportunities for immigrant PEs to serve underserved communities or engage in philanthropic engineering work in Oklahoma.

1. Engineers Without Borders: This organization works to provide engineering solutions to global problems affecting the poorest and most marginalized people in the world, with a special focus on developing countries. They have chapters in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City, where engineers can engage in projects involving water supply, sanitation, energy, transportation, and more.

2. Oklahoma Engineering Foundation: This non-profit organization works to support and encourage education, research, professionalism, and public awareness of engineering throughout the state. It sponsors a range of activities that support underserved communities, including scholarships and educational programs for underrepresented groups.

3. Tinker Partnership: This initiative was developed to promote technology-based economic development in Oklahoma, and seeks to involve immigrants with engineering backgrounds in its activities. Immigrant engineers can join the Tinker Partnership’s Innovation Hub to collaborate on projects with other engineers.

4. Community Engineering Corps: This program is organized by the American Society of Civil Engineers and partners with organizations around the country to provide engineering services to underserved communities. In Oklahoma, it partners with the Tinker Partnership to assist communities in developing sustainable infrastructure projects.