TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researcher Salary in New York
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$415,534/yr
Typical range: $353,075 – $434,155
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
AI Safety Researcher salary by experience level in New York
AI Safety Researcher Salary Progression in New York
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 | $190,921 | $15,910 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $235,843 | $19,654 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $265,792 | $22,149 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $307,720 | $25,643 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $415,534 | $34,628 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $521,102 | $43,425 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $547,494 | $45,625 | +187% |
Current Salary
$415,534
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $200/hr
Next Level Target
$521,102
Principal · 14
+$106Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
100/100
Exceptional
+65% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead AI Safety Researcher salary in New York, NY?
Staff / Lead AI Safety Researchers in New York, NY earn approximately $416K 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 New York, NY?
Based on $416K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $200/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior AI Safety Researcher in New York, NY?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior AI Safety Researcher in New York, NY earns $353K–$434K/yr.