TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience AI Safety Researcher Salary in Austin
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$87,440/yr
Typical range: $73,450 – $116,154
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Safety Researcher salary by experience level in Austin
AI Safety Researcher 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 | $62,809 | $5,234 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $77,587 | $6,466 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $87,440 | $7,287 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $101,233 | $8,436 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $136,702 | $11,392 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $171,431 | $14,286 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $180,114 | $15,010 | +187% |
Current Salary
$87,440
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $42/hr
Next Level Target
$101,233
Senior · 6
+$14Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+65% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience AI Safety Researcher salary in Austin, TX?
3–5 Years Experience AI Safety Researchers in Austin, TX earn approximately $87K 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 Safety Researcher make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $87K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $42/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior AI Safety Researcher in Austin, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Safety Researcher in Austin, TX earns $116K–$143K/yr.