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Hardware Engineering

IC3 - Proficient

The median salary range for Hardware Engineering (IC3) roles disclosed in public job postings is $120k - $165k as of Aug 2026, based on 11,218 job postings from 312 companies.

Salary Range

Low

$120,000

16%

Mid

$142,500

16%

High

$165,000

Level Comparison

LevelSample SizeLowMidHigh
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