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.
$118,456/yr
Typical range: $100,651 – $123,765
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 | $54,426 | $4,536 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $67,232 | $5,603 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $75,769 | $6,314 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $87,722 | $7,310 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $118,456 | $9,871 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $148,551 | $12,379 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $156,074 | $13,006 | +187% |
Current Salary
$118,456
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $57/hr
Next Level Target
$148,551
Principal · 14
+$30Kpotential 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 $118K 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 $118K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $57/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 $101K–$124K/yr.