EducationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead University Professor Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$141,323/yr
Typical range: $141,303 – $161,526
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
University Professor salary by experience level in Chicago
University Professor 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 | $97,464 | $8,122 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $109,647 | $9,137 | +13% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $117,769 | $9,814 | +21% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $125,729 | $10,477 | +29% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $141,323 | $11,777 | +45% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $153,018 | $12,752 | +57% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $155,942 | $12,995 | +60% |
Current Salary
$141,323
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $68/hr
Next Level Target
$153,018
Principal · 14
+$12Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
41/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead University Professor salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead University Professors 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 University Professor 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 University Professor in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior University Professor in Chicago, IL earns $141K–$162K/yr.