TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controller Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$212,632/yr
Typical range: $189,713 – $231,864
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Air Traffic Controller salary by experience level in Chicago
Air Traffic Controller Salary Progression in Chicago
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 | $103,278 | $8,607 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $127,579 | $10,632 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $143,780 | $11,982 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $164,030 | $13,669 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $212,632 | $17,719 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $258,804 | $21,567 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $270,346 | $22,529 | +162% |
Current Salary
$212,632
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $102/hr
Next Level Target
$258,804
Principal · 14
+$46Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
33/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Air Traffic Controller salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controllers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $213K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $213K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $102/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Air Traffic Controller in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Air Traffic Controller in Chicago, IL earns $190K–$232K/yr.