TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researcher Salary in Boston
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$159,273/yr
Typical range: $135,333 – $166,411
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Safety Researcher salary by experience level in Boston
AI Safety Researcher Salary Progression in Boston
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 | $73,180 | $6,098 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $90,398 | $7,533 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $101,877 | $8,490 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $117,948 | $9,829 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $159,273 | $13,273 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $199,737 | $16,645 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $209,853 | $17,488 | +187% |
Current Salary
$159,273
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $77/hr
Next Level Target
$199,737
Principal · 14
+$40Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+65% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead AI Safety Researcher salary in Boston, MA?
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researchers in Boston, MA earn approximately $159K 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 Boston, MA?
Based on $159K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $77/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior AI Safety Researcher in Boston, MA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Safety Researcher in Boston, MA earns $135K–$166K/yr.