Registration pays: new data reveals £7k salary boost for engineers

Engineers and technicians who achieve professional registration are seeing a significant financial return, according to the latest Engineer Salary Survey 2025 — and the data couldn’t have come at a better time for CEA members.

 

The Engineering Council has reported that registered engineers earn, on average, £7,000 more per year than their non-registered counterparts. The findings are based on a survey of 621 professionals across 12 sectors, with nearly half (49%) holding professional registration. Unsurprisingly, those with professional status were more likely to benefit from career progression, promotions, and increased earning potential.

 

This national insight underlines the value of the CEA’s new membership partner agreement with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). Through the partnership, CEA members and their teams can access one-to-one support and structured guidance on how to become professionally registered — whether that’s EngTech, IEng or CEng.

 

The IMechE team provides guidance on application advice, mentoring, CPD planning, and webinar access, supporting engineers at every stage of their career. For employers, it’s a great way to invest in teams, improve retention, and demonstrate a commitment to raising standards across the sector.

 

Viki Bell, CEA Chief Executive, said: “This partnership with IMechE gives our members a clear route to recognition. Whether you’re a technician or an experienced engineer, we’re encouraging everyone to consider professional registration — the benefits speak for themselves.”

For those working in construction equipment, manufacturing, engineering services or plant hire, professional registration is a practical step that can lead to better pay and stronger career prospects.