MediaOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Technical Writer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$142,169/yr
Typical range: $126,844 – $155,027
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Technical Writer salary by experience level in Chicago
Technical Writer 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 | $69,053 | $5,754 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $85,301 | $7,108 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $96,133 | $8,011 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $109,673 | $9,139 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $142,169 | $11,847 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $173,039 | $14,420 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $180,757 | $15,063 | +162% |
Current Salary
$142,169
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $68/hr
Next Level Target
$173,039
Principal · 14
+$31Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
33/100
High Risk
+10% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Technical Writer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Technical Writers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $142K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Technical Writer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $142K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $68/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Technical Writer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Technical Writer in Chicago, IL earns $127K–$155K/yr.