TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Cloud Security Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$135,080/yr
Typical range: $113,467 – $179,439
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Cloud Security Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Cloud Security 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 | $97,029 | $8,086 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $119,860 | $9,988 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $135,080 | $11,257 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $156,388 | $13,032 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $211,181 | $17,598 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $264,833 | $22,069 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $278,246 | $23,187 | +187% |
Current Salary
$135,080
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $65/hr
Next Level Target
$156,388
Senior · 6
+$21Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
79/100
Above Average
+36% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Cloud Security Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
3–5 Years Experience Cloud Security Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $135K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Cloud Security Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $135K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $65/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Cloud Security Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Cloud Security Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $179K–$221K/yr.