TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior AI Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$148,688/yr
Typical range: $170,603 – $209,780
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Engineer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
AI Engineer Salary Progression in Los Angeles
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 | $92,252 | $7,688 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $113,958 | $9,497 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $128,429 | $10,702 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $148,688 | $12,391 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $200,783 | $16,732 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $251,792 | $20,983 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $264,545 | $22,045 | +187% |
Current Salary
$148,688
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $71/hr
Next Level Target
$200,783
Staff · 10
+$52Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+55% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior AI Engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Senior AI Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $149K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior AI Engineer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $149K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $71/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior AI Engineer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Engineer in Los Angeles, CA earns $171K–$210K/yr.