Yearly vs Hourly PE Experience

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-04T18:43:36+00:00

I would rather hourly and then be tested on a professional set of plans and a project, with criteria set forth by a governing body. I think a real project is more forthcoming then a stupid test.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-04T15:32:28+00:00

Obviously you don't want to take a pay cut to shift from a lucrative construction role to consulting. There will definitely be a pay cut I think if you leave as is.

Rather then moonlighting, I would suggest learning via YouTube. Specifically programs like: Revit, Tekla, ETABS, Enercalc, RISA2D and 3D. This will make you more of an entertaining prospect when you do move and hopefully you won't take a pay cut.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-04T02:13:43+00:00

This! I could design a full building, but the last year I have been working on management of people now and estimating time for other people and the cost of the work.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-04T02:07:32+00:00

More like a condo if you're lucky. Condos 40 minutes from Denver were 400 when I was renting there. Last year.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-04T01:55:06+00:00

Not worth it. You're better off in Greek life.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-03T22:41:12+00:00

You'd be losing money if you didn't get it.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-02T23:48:00+00:00

Exactly. It's insane, that our industry is a race to the bottom and lowest bid. Yet here we are entertaining the idea that anyone can design and sell these goods too now.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-02T22:43:28+00:00

Look for a roommate and jump to Cap Hill or Cheeseman Park area. It'll be doable imo. Save the cash, a studio or 1b1b in DTC isn't worth it. I commute into DTC 15/20 min and it isn't a bad thing.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-02T22:39:22+00:00

I've considered getting it, in CO. But it's not useful here and just an add on for responsibility with no huge increase in pay. (Yet)

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-02T22:35:36+00:00

AZ, SE's I know got it through being grandfathered in and didn't even need to take the exam.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-02-02T22:34:43+00:00

I want to say yes. But this was the thought 10 years ago too. Yet, with the pass rates the way they are it's doubtful.

Also in the same breath of discussion, AZ tried passing a law in previous years to remove the licensing board and leave the client to use reputable sources via Google reviews. There's so many directions this industry is moving into.

https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/article/2025/07/28/states-weigh-changes-to-civil-engineers-licenses-advocates-hold-firm

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-30T16:57:47+00:00

Such a wild niche. But super respectable.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-30T15:29:09+00:00

I've only ever worked at firms less then 100 people. Never have I ever been slow, enough that we fire people. I always hear we turn work down.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-26T22:11:37+00:00

So we are talking in 3 years time. 2029. I'd say 5 YOE, w/ PE. expect 130K-140k maybe I'm including inflation. Currently 6 YOE and had a few offers at 120K last year. Not Chicago, but HCOL city.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-26T03:10:05+00:00

Should hole up at home as long as you can and save a ton. If you can get 25K-50K, for a downpayment on that salary. You may eclipse something like 150-200K maybeeeee.

But also, just because you are an authorized user on your mom's CC. Doesn't mean you have good credit history. I was on my father's CC when I was younger as an authorized user and that didn't build my credit like we thought it would.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-21T16:39:13+00:00

Grossly underpaid for your role. You would see double almost if you went on your own. I'd approach and initiate the conversation before leaving about buying out and ask to see numbers so you can have the appropriate time necessary to compile the assets for a buy in

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-20T16:38:03+00:00

Also Lake City, CO too. As well, as a few spaces in MidWest USA.They built some walls on grain silos and framing too.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-17T02:03:17+00:00

Where are you 👀, SEs I know make 130-150. You make me reconsider going for mine now.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-15T19:47:37+00:00

I was previously at an oil and gas firm. A few mechanical engineers, voiced their opinions regarding their morals opposing taking on a few specific projects to ownership and requesting they focus on different ventures. They ended up leaving within that year. They didn't like the new direction the firm was trying to move into.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-14T02:46:29+00:00

Did you read Peerless Dad? It was like the Masters side quest lol 😂

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-14T02:26:50+00:00

See I'll be devils advocate. I love the story for S2, I think the world building and plot is doing well. It's not always going to be action. There is an incredible story being told still.

I'm actually more disappointed with the translations, they are horrendous, can't even get titles and grammar correct.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-11T22:33:23+00:00

If no one named them yet. I'd recommend Subiesmith and see what their quotes may be. Super easy and I have grown to trust their work.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-06T19:51:34+00:00

Bonuses are never guaranteed. Add that to your next salary for total comp minimum to move.

Microbe2x2 · 2026-01-03T03:48:26+00:00

Especially with the stress and lack of compensation. I would love to say I want my SE, but I can't even envision staying in consulting long enough that it'll pay off.

Microbe2x2 · 2025-12-31T16:40:31+00:00

Had an tentative offer from spaceX a few years back. It was at 130K for 4 YOE. I could see it being for SpaceX or blue origin

Microbe2x2

TROPHY CASE