TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience AI Safety Researcher Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$208,759/yr
Typical range: $175,358 – $277,313
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Safety Researcher salary by experience level in Chicago
AI Safety Researcher Salary Progression in Chicago
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 | $149,954 | $12,496 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $185,237 | $15,436 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $208,759 | $17,397 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $241,690 | $20,141 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $326,370 | $27,198 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $409,285 | $34,107 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $430,014 | $35,835 | +187% |
Current Salary
$208,759
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $100/hr
Next Level Target
$241,690
Senior · 6
+$33Kpotential 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 Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience AI Safety Researchers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $209K 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 Chicago, IL?
Based on $209K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $100/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior AI Safety Researcher in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Safety Researcher in Chicago, IL earns $277K–$341K/yr.