I carry a bachelor's in mechanical engineering making about $83k a year. Guess that ain't shit nowadays.
My 'salary' is only 20k less and I didn't need to spend a boat load of money on 4 years of college to get it. I say 'salary' because I get time and a half pay for overtime (which I typically work a lot of).
Last year I made over 90k, so yes.. I would say $83k for any engineering job is trash.
I do have a crazy work schedule, but I don't have to travel.
You should probably ask for a raise or shop for a new job in my opinion. I have a relative who is a civil engineer, he was offered about 85k with no experience, and fresh out of college about 10 years ago. He turned the offer down and found a better offer.
Well I think it depends on the area too? I know there are positions that pay very handsomely but it's usually in higher cost of living areas.
Are you the best at your company? Are you keeping up with changes in the field? Can you take more courses to elevate your skills?
If you can't look in the mirror and say I'm the best fuckin engineer at my company then you need to do better. If you ARE the best, then you might want to move to a new company for better pay. 83K isn't bad at all. Seems like you should be able to afford those things you want since you said that you have very little debt.
I can afford it. But I just feel like it's just barely skipping by. Maybe I'm not giving it my all. I will be taking on a side hustle this year in hopes that will make me happier.