ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Biologist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$139,059/yr
Typical range: $126,943 – $153,272
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Biologist salary by experience level in Chicago
Biologist 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 | $66,955 | $5,580 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $84,466 | $7,039 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $96,827 | $8,069 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $110,217 | $9,185 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $139,059 | $11,588 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $161,309 | $13,442 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $166,871 | $13,906 | +149% |
Current Salary
$139,059
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $67/hr
Next Level Target
$161,309
Principal · 14
+$22Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+6% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Biologist salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Biologists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $139K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Biologist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $139K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $67/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Biologist in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Biologist in Chicago, IL earns $127K–$153K/yr.