EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$149,994/yr
Typical range: $133,048 – $159,670
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Mechanical Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Mechanical 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 | $76,084 | $6,340 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $92,387 | $7,699 | +21% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $103,256 | $8,605 | +36% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $116,952 | $9,746 | +54% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $149,994 | $12,500 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $176,079 | $14,673 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $182,601 | $15,217 | +140% |
Current Salary
$149,994
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $72/hr
Next Level Target
$176,079
Principal · 14
+$26Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Mechanical Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Mechanical Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $150K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Mechanical Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $150K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $72/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Mechanical Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Mechanical Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $133K–$160K/yr.