TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researcher Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$134,454/yr
Typical range: $114,244 – $140,479
P90 · 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $61,776 | $5,148 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $76,311 | $6,359 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $86,002 | $7,167 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $99,568 | $8,297 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $134,454 | $11,205 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $168,612 | $14,051 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $177,152 | $14,763 | +187% |
Current Salary
$134,454
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $65/hr
Next Level Target
$168,612
Principal · 14
+$34Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+65% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead AI Safety Researcher salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researchers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $134K 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 Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $134K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $65/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior AI Safety Researcher in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Safety Researcher in Los Angeles, CA earns $114K–$140K/yr.