TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Data Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$168,795/yr
Typical range: $193,674 – $238,149
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Data Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Data 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 | $104,727 | $8,727 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $129,368 | $10,781 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $145,796 | $12,150 | +39% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $168,795 | $14,066 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $227,935 | $18,995 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $285,843 | $23,820 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $300,320 | $25,027 | +187% |
Current Salary
$168,795
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $81/hr
Next Level Target
$227,935
Staff · 10
+$59Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
71/100
Above Average
+34% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Data Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
Senior Data Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $169K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Data Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $169K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $81/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Data Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Data Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $194K–$238K/yr.