ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$186,843/yr
Typical range: $170,563 – $205,940
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Chicago
Research Scientist 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 | $89,961 | $7,497 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $113,490 | $9,458 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $130,098 | $10,842 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $148,090 | $12,341 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $186,843 | $15,570 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $216,738 | $18,062 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $224,211 | $18,684 | +149% |
Current Salary
$186,843
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $90/hr
Next Level Target
$216,738
Principal · 14
+$30Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in Chicago, IL earn approximately $187K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Research Scientist make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $187K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $90/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Research Scientist in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Chicago, IL earns $171K–$206K/yr.