TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1000–2 years
Entry Level Program Manager Salary in Chicago
2026 · Recent graduates and professionals with under 2 years of experience.
$114,721/yr
Typical range: $109,103 – $134,157
P10–P25 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Program Manager salary by experience level in Chicago
Program Manager Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EntryThis page | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $114,721 | $9,560 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $141,715 | $11,810 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $159,710 | $13,309 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $184,904 | $15,409 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $249,688 | $20,807 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $313,122 | $26,094 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $328,981 | $27,415 | +187% |
Current Salary
$114,721
Entry Level · 0–2 years
Hourly: $55/hr
Next Level Target
$141,715
Junior · 2
+$27Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
47/100
Below Average
+15% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry level Program Manager salary in Chicago, IL?
Entry Level Program Managers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $115K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P10–P25 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a entry level Program Manager make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $115K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $55/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from entry level to senior Program Manager in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 4–6 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Program Manager in Chicago, IL earns $212K–$261K/yr.