Software Engineer Salary at Fidelity Investments: A Deep Dive

How much do software engineers earn at Fidelity Investments? That’s the question we’ll answer upfront. Fidelity Investments, one of the largest and most respected financial services companies, offers competitive compensation packages to its software engineers, but what does that really look like? By the end of this article, you’ll understand the salary ranges, factors influencing pay, and how the compensation stacks up against industry standards.

The Key Number: Median Salary

The median salary for software engineers at Fidelity Investments ranges between $90,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the level of experience, location, and technical skills. Senior engineers and those with specialized skills in areas like cloud computing or cybersecurity can expect to be on the higher end of that range, potentially exceeding $160,000.

Compensation Breakdown

At Fidelity, the total compensation package is made up of base salary, bonuses, stock options, and benefits. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Base Salary: As mentioned, this ranges between $90,000 and $150,000 for most roles.
• Bonuses: Annual bonuses typically add an extra 10-20% of the base salary.
• Stock Options: Fidelity provides stock options or RSUs (restricted stock units) for mid-to-senior level positions.
• Benefits: Fidelity is known for its robust benefits package, which includes health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and more.

Location Matters: A Key Influencer of Salary

Location is a big factor when it comes to salary. Fidelity has offices across the United States, but software engineers in Boston, New York, and San Francisco tend to earn the highest salaries, often on the higher end of the range (closer to $140,000 - $160,000).

In smaller cities or regions like Raleigh, North Carolina, salaries may be lower but still competitive, usually between $90,000 and $120,000. The cost of living in these areas is lower, making the compensation attractive when compared to local standards.

Experience and Skills: The Bigger the Toolbox, the Bigger the Salary

At Fidelity, experience plays a crucial role in determining salary. Engineers with 5-10 years of experience earn significantly more than those just starting. Senior engineers with over a decade of experience can command salaries upwards of $160,000, particularly if they possess specialized skills such as:

• Cloud computing (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
• Cybersecurity
• Data Science and Machine Learning
• Blockchain technologies

Here’s a table that breaks down salaries by experience level:

Experience Level	Salary Range	Bonus Potential
Entry-level (0-2 years)	$80,000 - $100,000	10-15%
Mid-level (3-5 years)	$100,000 - $120,000	12-18%
Senior-level (6+ years)	$120,000 - $160,000	15-20%

Stock Options: The Long-Term Value

One of the most compelling aspects of compensation at Fidelity is the potential long-term wealth building through stock options. Engineers who stay with the company for several years can accumulate substantial equity in the company, leading to long-term wealth accumulation.

Comparing to Industry Standards

When we compare these salaries to the broader market, Fidelity offers above-average compensation for software engineers. For instance, the average software engineer salary in the U.S. hovers around $110,000 according to various industry reports. Fidelity’s starting point of $90,000 is highly competitive, especially given the bonus and benefits packages.

A Career at Fidelity: More Than Just Salary

While salary is a significant motivator, Fidelity Investments offers more than just money. It’s known for:

• Work-life balance: Flexible hours, the option for remote work, and paid parental leave.
• Career advancement: Fidelity provides numerous opportunities for growth and professional development, including leadership programs and continuing education subsidies.
• Inclusive culture: Fidelity emphasizes a diverse and inclusive workplace, creating a supportive environment for software engineers of all backgrounds.

Job Satisfaction: What Do Employees Say?

According to reviews on Glassdoor and LinkedIn, Fidelity’s software engineers report high levels of job satisfaction, citing the company’s supportive culture, strong benefits, and opportunities for advancement. Many engineers also highlight the company’s commitment to innovation, making it a great place to work for those who want to be at the forefront of fintech.

In conclusion, Fidelity Investments offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package to its software engineers, making it an attractive destination for talent. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, Fidelity provides the financial and career support to thrive.