Pay by Role
Switzerland · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Data Engineer salary

In Switzerland, a data engineer earns about 41% more than a backend developer $228,595 vs $161,870 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CHF). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Technology
Backend Developer
$161,870/yr
Monthly
$13,469
Hourly
$78
Range
$103,548$233,044
10-yr outlook
+16%
Pays more
Technology
Data Engineer
$228,595/yr
Monthly
$19,029
Hourly
$110
Range
$146,301$329,177
10-yr outlook
+30%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperData Engineer
Entry (10th)$103,548$146,301
25th$132,709$187,448
Median$161,870$228,595
75th$197,457$278,886
Senior (90th)$233,044$329,177

National Switzerland figures in CHF. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or data engineer earn more in Switzerland?
A data engineer earns more, at about CHF 185'000 per year vs CHF 131'000 for a backend developer — roughly 41% (CHF 54'000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in Switzerland?
A backend developer typically earns CHF 83'800–CHF 188'600, while a data engineer earns CHF 118'400–CHF 266'400 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in Switzerland?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about CHF 10'900 and a data engineer about CHF 15'400.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Switzerland, a backend developer earns about CHF 83'800 while a data engineer earns about CHF 118'400 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Switzerland, a backend developer earns about CHF 188'600 while a data engineer earns about CHF 266'400 per year.
Are backend developer and data engineer 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.