TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researcher Salary in Dallas
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$286,925/yr
Typical range: $243,797 – $299,783
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Safety Researcher salary by experience level in Dallas
AI Safety Researcher Salary Progression in Dallas
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 | $131,830 | $10,986 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $162,849 | $13,571 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $183,528 | $15,294 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $212,479 | $17,707 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $286,925 | $23,910 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $359,819 | $29,985 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $378,043 | $31,504 | +187% |
Current Salary
$286,925
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $138/hr
Next Level Target
$359,819
Principal · 14
+$73Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+65% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead AI Safety Researcher salary in Dallas, TX?
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researchers in Dallas, TX earn approximately $287K 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 Dallas, TX?
Based on $287K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $138/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior AI Safety Researcher in Dallas, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Safety Researcher in Dallas, TX earns $244K–$300K/yr.