ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Climate Scientist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$95,248/yr
Typical range: $109,702 – $132,456
P75 · 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 | $57,861 | $4,822 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $72,994 | $6,083 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $83,676 | $6,973 | +45% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $95,248 | $7,937 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $120,173 | $10,014 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $139,401 | $11,617 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $144,208 | $12,017 | +149% |
Current Salary
$95,248
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $46/hr
Next Level Target
$120,173
Staff · 10
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
64/100
Good
+22% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Climate Scientist salary in Chicago, IL?
Senior Climate Scientists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $95K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Climate Scientist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $95K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $46/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior 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 $110K–$132K/yr.