ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Geologist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$140,507/yr
Typical range: $128,264 – $154,868
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Geologist salary by experience level in Chicago
Geologist 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 | $67,651 | $5,638 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $85,345 | $7,112 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $97,834 | $8,153 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $111,365 | $9,280 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $140,507 | $11,709 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $162,988 | $13,582 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $168,608 | $14,051 | +149% |
Current Salary
$140,507
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $68/hr
Next Level Target
$162,988
Principal · 14
+$22Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Geologist salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Geologists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $141K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Geologist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $141K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $68/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Geologist in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Geologist in Chicago, IL earns $128K–$155K/yr.