Gendered Queer Occupational Disparities in Male-Dominated Professions: Sexual Minority Workers in Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Fields

Abstract Introduction This study investigates sectoral placement and wage disparities between heterosexual and sexual minority professionals in male-dominated STEM fields, specifically, computer science, engineering, and mathematics (CSEM). Prior research has documented general labor market inequalities by sexual orientation, but less is known about how these inequalities manifest within specific professional fields shaped by heteronormative and gendered organizational cultures. Methods Using original survey data collected in 2021 from 3713 cisgender CSEM professionals in the United States, this study analyzes how sexual orientation and gender intersect to shape two key occupational outcomes: employment sector and self-reported annual wages. Multinomial logistic regression and OLS models are used, controlling for worker, family, and demographic characteristics. Results Findings reveal pronounced sectoral segregation: sexual minority men are more likely than heterosexual men to work in public sectors and are underrepresented in private industry. In contrast, sexual minority women’s sectoral distribution closely resembles that of heterosexual women; both groups are more likely than heterosexual men to work in the public sector. In terms of wages, sexual minority men do not differ significantly from heterosexual men, while sexual minority women earn significantly less than both heterosexual men and women. Conclusions Sexual minority workers face distinct forms of occupational inequality in CSEM fields, with gender moderating both sectoral and wage disparities. Policy Implications Findings underscore the need for anti-discrimination protection and diversity efforts in private-sector STEM jobs.