TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$172,803/yr
Typical range: $145,154 – $229,549
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Machine Learning Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Machine Learning 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 | $124,126 | $10,344 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $153,332 | $12,778 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $172,803 | $14,400 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $200,062 | $16,672 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $270,156 | $22,513 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $338,791 | $28,233 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $355,949 | $29,662 | +187% |
Current Salary
$172,803
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $83/hr
Next Level Target
$200,062
Senior · 6
+$27Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
94/100
Exceptional
+45% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Machine Learning Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
Mid Level Machine Learning Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $173K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Machine Learning Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $173K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $83/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Machine Learning Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Machine Learning Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $230K–$282K/yr.