TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience AI Engineer Salary in Austin
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$194,757/yr
Typical range: $163,596 – $258,713
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Engineer salary by experience level in Austin
AI Engineer Salary Progression in Austin
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 | $139,896 | $11,658 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $172,812 | $14,401 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $194,757 | $16,230 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $225,479 | $18,790 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $304,479 | $25,373 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $381,833 | $31,819 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $401,172 | $33,431 | +187% |
Current Salary
$194,757
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $94/hr
Next Level Target
$225,479
Senior · 6
+$31Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+55% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience AI Engineer salary in Austin, TX?
3–5 Years Experience AI Engineers in Austin, TX earn approximately $195K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience AI Engineer make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $195K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $94/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior AI Engineer in Austin, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Engineer in Austin, TX earns $259K–$318K/yr.