EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Manufacturing Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$128,954/yr
Typical range: $146,703 – $176,057
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Manufacturing Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Manufacturing 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 | $83,892 | $6,991 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $101,869 | $8,489 | +21% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $113,854 | $9,488 | +36% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $128,954 | $10,746 | +54% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $165,387 | $13,782 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $194,151 | $16,179 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $201,341 | $16,778 | +140% |
Current Salary
$128,954
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $62/hr
Next Level Target
$165,387
Staff · 10
+$36Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
29/100
High Risk
+5% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Manufacturing Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
Senior Manufacturing Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $129K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Manufacturing Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $129K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $62/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Manufacturing Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Manufacturing Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $147K–$176K/yr.