TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1000–2 years
Entry Level AI Safety Researcher Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Recent graduates and professionals with under 2 years of experience.
$186,375/yr
Typical range: $177,247 – $217,950
P10–P25 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Safety Researcher salary by experience level in Los Angeles
AI Safety Researcher Salary Progression in Los Angeles
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EntryThis page | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $186,375 | $15,531 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $230,228 | $19,186 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $259,463 | $21,622 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $300,393 | $25,033 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $405,640 | $33,803 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $508,694 | $42,391 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $534,458 | $44,538 | +187% |
Current Salary
$186,375
Entry Level · 0–2 years
Hourly: $90/hr
Next Level Target
$230,228
Junior · 2
+$44Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+65% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry level AI Safety Researcher salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Entry Level AI Safety Researchers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $186K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P10–P25 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a entry level AI Safety Researcher make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $186K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $90/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from entry level to senior AI Safety Researcher in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 4–6 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Safety Researcher in Los Angeles, CA earns $345K–$424K/yr.