Billing rates for a few positions--need guidance

[LaSalle1940]

This concerns work in the northeast corridor of the US (let's say the Philadelphia/Wilmington area):

1. Suppose you're a CAD person with maybe 3 years of experience maximum using AutoCAD, mostly on stuff like P & ID work. What would you say is a reasonable hourly billing rate if you were going to work directly for a client?

2. Now, suppose you're a process engineer who happens to know his/her way around the ASME Code (Section VIII, Division 1), has some CAD experience (let's say AutoCAD), and would also be doing some process work (let's say jacketed vessel heat transfer calcs, relief device sizing, etc.) Again, what would you say is a reasonable hourly rate if one were working directly for a client?

Thanks.

 

[DDS1]

I am in the midwest but have paid out when we were busy and have billed for our services approx. 30-35 hr for drafting services and 60-70 hr for engineering and design. If you have little overhead and want to appear reasonable then 30 and 60 are fair.

For what its worth

DDS1

 

[Rich2001]

PE?

 

[MJCronin]

LaSalle,

I agree with DDS....but these seem to be rock-bottom rates

If the client wants PE stamped drawings....detailed reports....attendence at long project review meetines etc. etc.....I would charge $15/hr more

Lets not forget, when you bring you newly purchased car to a dealer's shop...the billing rate is usually $60-$80/hr

My opinion only

MJC

 

[LaSalle1940]

Thank you, one and all: this gives me a decent perspective of where things ought to be in terms of billing rates.

 

[jsummerfield]

Market conditions affect rates. When the market is hot you can get better rates.

John

 

[JoeTank]

Mr Cronin,
A good engineer will cost a bit more than a good auto mechanic, but a whole lot less than a good lawyer.


Steve Braune
Tank Industry Consultants

http://www.tankindustry.com

 

[Rich2001]

Last project I had in Marcus Hook, PA area, charged $70/Hr, P.E.