EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Aerospace Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$154,821/yr
Typical range: $133,135 – $199,489
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Aerospace Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Aerospace Engineer Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $114,078 | $9,507 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $138,524 | $11,544 | +21% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $154,821 | $12,902 | +36% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $175,355 | $14,613 | +54% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $224,897 | $18,741 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $264,010 | $22,001 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $273,788 | $22,816 | +140% |
Current Salary
$154,821
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $74/hr
Next Level Target
$175,355
Senior · 6
+$21Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+6% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Aerospace Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Aerospace Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $155K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Aerospace Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $155K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $74/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Aerospace Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Aerospace Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $199K–$239K/yr.