TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Robotics Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$209,288/yr
Typical range: $177,830 – $218,667
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Robotics Engineer salary by experience level in Chicago
Robotics 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 | $96,159 | $8,013 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $118,785 | $9,899 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $133,869 | $11,156 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $154,986 | $12,916 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $209,288 | $17,441 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $262,459 | $21,872 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $275,751 | $22,979 | +187% |
Current Salary
$209,288
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $101/hr
Next Level Target
$262,459
Principal · 14
+$53Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
79/100
Above Average
+35% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Robotics Engineer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Robotics Engineers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $209K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Robotics Engineer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $209K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $101/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Robotics Engineer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Robotics Engineer in Chicago, IL earns $178K–$219K/yr.