Data Engineer vs Data Scientist salary
In New Zealand, a data engineer earns about 11% more than a data scientist — $137,031 vs $123,213 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is NZD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Engineer$137,031/yr
- Monthly
- $11,400
- Hourly
- $66
- Range
- $87,688–$197,313
- 10-yr outlook
- +30%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Engineer | Data Scientist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $87,688 | $76,634 |
| 25th | $112,389 | $99,952 |
| Median | $137,031 | $123,213 |
| 75th | $167,201 | $151,656 |
| Senior (90th) | $197,313 | $180,156 |
National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data engineer or data scientist earn more in New Zealand?
- A data engineer earns more, at about $238,000 per year vs $214,000 for a data scientist — roughly 11% ($24,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
- A data engineer typically earns $152,300–$342,700, while a data scientist earns $133,100–$312,900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data engineer averages about $19,800 and a data scientist about $17,800.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a data engineer earns about $152,300 while a data scientist earns about $133,100 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a data engineer earns about $342,700 while a data scientist earns about $312,900 per year.
- Are data engineer and data scientist similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.