TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researcher Salary in Austin
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$328,427/yr
Typical range: $279,061 – $343,145
P90 · 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 | $150,899 | $12,575 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $186,404 | $15,534 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $210,075 | $17,506 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $243,213 | $20,268 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $328,427 | $27,369 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $411,865 | $34,322 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $432,725 | $36,060 | +187% |
Current Salary
$328,427
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $158/hr
Next Level Target
$411,865
Principal · 14
+$83Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+65% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead AI Safety Researcher salary in Austin, TX?
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researchers in Austin, TX earn approximately $328K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead AI Safety Researcher make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $328K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $158/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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 $279K–$343K/yr.