TradesOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Construction Manager Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$166,195/yr
Typical range: $163,414 – $192,568
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Construction Manager salary by experience level in Chicago
Construction Manager 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 | $98,082 | $8,174 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $117,154 | $9,763 | +19% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $129,868 | $10,822 | +32% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $142,219 | $11,852 | +45% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $166,195 | $13,850 | +69% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $183,631 | $15,303 | +87% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $187,991 | $15,666 | +92% |
Current Salary
$166,195
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $80/hr
Next Level Target
$183,631
Principal · 14
+$17Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
45/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Construction Manager salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Construction Managers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $166K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Construction Manager make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $166K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $80/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Construction Manager in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Construction Manager in Chicago, IL earns $163K–$193K/yr.