ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$126,800/yr
Typical range: $115,752 – $139,760
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Environmental Scientist salary by experience level in Chicago
Environmental 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 | $61,052 | $5,088 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $77,019 | $6,418 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $88,290 | $7,358 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $100,501 | $8,375 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $126,800 | $10,567 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $147,088 | $12,257 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $152,160 | $12,680 | +149% |
Current Salary
$126,800
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $61/hr
Next Level Target
$147,088
Principal · 14
+$20Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Environmental Scientist salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $127K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Environmental Scientist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $127K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $61/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Environmental Scientist in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Environmental Scientist in Chicago, IL earns $116K–$140K/yr.