EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Chemical Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$132,244/yr
Typical range: $113,720 – $170,399
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Chemical Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Chemical 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 | $97,443 | $8,120 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $118,323 | $9,860 | +21% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $132,244 | $11,020 | +36% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $149,784 | $12,482 | +54% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $192,102 | $16,009 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $225,510 | $18,793 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $233,863 | $19,489 | +140% |
Current Salary
$132,244
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $64/hr
Next Level Target
$149,784
Senior · 6
+$18Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Chemical Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Chemical Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $132K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Chemical Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $132K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $64/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Chemical Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Chemical Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $170K–$204K/yr.