TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Autonomous Systems Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$185,568/yr
Typical range: $155,878 – $246,507
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Autonomous Systems Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Autonomous Systems Engineer 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 | $133,296 | $11,108 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $164,659 | $13,722 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $185,568 | $15,464 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $214,841 | $17,903 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $290,114 | $24,176 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $363,819 | $30,318 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $382,245 | $31,854 | +187% |
Current Salary
$185,568
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $89/hr
Next Level Target
$214,841
Senior · 6
+$29Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
91/100
Exceptional
+42% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Autonomous Systems Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Autonomous Systems Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $186K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Autonomous Systems Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $186K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $89/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Autonomous Systems Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Autonomous Systems Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $247K–$303K/yr.