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Hardware Engineering

IC5 - Expert

The median salary range for Hardware Engineering (IC5) roles disclosed in public job postings is $158k - $215k as of Aug 2026, based on 1,921 job postings from 152 companies.

Salary Range

Low

$158,125

15%

Mid

$186,563

15%

High

$215,000

Level Comparison

Level	Sample Size		Low	Mid	High
IC1 Entry 0-1 YOE Contributes to smaller projects under detailed guidance.	Very Large 435 Data Points		$72,800	$86,400	$100,000
IC2 Developing 2-4 YOE Contributes to projects under general guidance. Skills are relatively developed with room for growth.	Very Large 1,067 Data Points		$100,000	$120,000	$140,000
IC3 Proficient 5-7 YOE Owns specific projects and requires minimal guidance. Skills are fully developed.	Very Large 978 Data Points		$120,000	$142,500	$165,000
IC4 Advanced 8-11 YOE Owns complex projects and drives their direction. Displays in-depth and broad skills and expertise.	Very Large 1,307 Data Points		$136,500	$160,783	$185,065
IC5 Expert 12+ YOE A very experienced team member who leads large, high-priority projects that impact company-level goals.	Very Large 398 Data Points		$158,125	$186,563	$215,000
IC6 Advisory An authority in their field who defines and drives initiatives with long-term strategic impact.	Very Large 479 Data Points		$167,625	$198,813	$230,000
M3 Manager Directly supervises a team of individual contributors and is accountable for their results.	Very Large 221 Data Points		$158,000	$181,500	$205,000
M4 Sr. Manager Experienced people manager responsible for setting objectives, observing budgets, and tracking results.	Very Large 144 Data Points		$180,000	$210,775	$241,550
M5 Director Oversees managers or leads their own department. Responsible for vision, strategy, hiring, and results.	Large 97 Data Points		$215,500	$251,000	$286,500
M6 Sr. Director Manages senior leaders in various groups. Responsible for a business function.	Medium 41 Data Points		$240,000	$270,000	$300,000