TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Computer Vision Engineer Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$259,946/yr
Typical range: $220,874 – $271,595
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Computer Vision Engineer salary by experience level in San Francisco
Computer Vision Engineer Salary Progression in San Francisco
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 | $119,435 | $9,953 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $147,537 | $12,295 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $166,272 | $13,856 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $192,500 | $16,042 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $259,946 | $21,662 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $325,986 | $27,166 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $342,496 | $28,541 | +187% |
Current Salary
$259,946
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $125/hr
Next Level Target
$325,986
Principal · 14
+$66Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
84/100
Strong
+38% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Computer Vision Engineer salary in San Francisco, CA?
Staff / Lead Computer Vision Engineers in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $260K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Computer Vision Engineer make per hour in San Francisco, CA?
Based on $260K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $125/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Computer Vision Engineer in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Computer Vision Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns $221K–$272K/yr.