BusinessOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Chief Technology Officer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$385,225/yr
Typical range: $348,367 – $430,978
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Chief Technology Officer salary by experience level in Chicago
Chief Technology Officer 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 | $178,855 | $14,905 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $225,632 | $18,803 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $258,651 | $21,554 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $297,174 | $24,765 | +66% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $385,225 | $32,102 | +115% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $462,270 | $38,523 | +158% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $481,532 | $40,128 | +169% |
Current Salary
$385,225
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $185/hr
Next Level Target
$462,270
Principal · 14
+$77Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
58/100
Moderate
+18% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Chief Technology Officer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Chief Technology Officers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $385K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Chief Technology Officer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $385K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $185/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Chief Technology Officer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Chief Technology Officer in Chicago, IL earns $348K–$431K/yr.