ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Climate Scientist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$108,799/yr
Typical range: $93,920 – $142,640
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Climate Scientist salary by experience level in Chicago
Climate Scientist 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 | $75,234 | $6,270 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $94,910 | $7,909 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $108,799 | $9,067 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $123,846 | $10,321 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $156,254 | $13,021 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $181,255 | $15,105 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $187,505 | $15,625 | +149% |
Current Salary
$108,799
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $52/hr
Next Level Target
$123,846
Senior · 6
+$15Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
64/100
Good
+22% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Climate Scientist salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Climate Scientists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $109K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Climate Scientist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $109K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $52/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Climate Scientist in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Climate Scientist in Chicago, IL earns $143K–$172K/yr.