CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Video Editor Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$100,200/yr
Typical range: $103,895 – $134,121
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Video Editor salary by experience level in Chicago
Video Editor 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 | $48,534 | $4,045 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $62,625 | $5,219 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $73,062 | $6,089 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $82,665 | $6,889 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $100,200 | $8,350 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $113,977 | $9,498 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $117,422 | $9,785 | +142% |
Current Salary
$100,200
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $48/hr
Next Level Target
$113,977
Principal · 14
+$14Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+12% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Video Editor salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Video Editors in Chicago, IL earn approximately $100K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Video Editor make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $100K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $48/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Video Editor in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Video Editor in Chicago, IL earns $104K–$134K/yr.