Chemical Engineer Salary in Chicago
2026 compensation data for Chemical Engineer positions in Chicago, IL. Ranges from $76,000 (entry-level) to $189,000 (senior). Median: $116,000.
Median (Mid)
$116,000
$55.77/hr
vs National
+0%
US: $116,000
COL Index
115
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$189,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $76,000 | $86,000 | $100,000 | $41.35/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $97,000 | $116,000 | $137,000 | $55.77/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $131,000 | $158,000 | $189,000 | $75.96/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Chicago
A mid-level chemical engineer earning $116,000 in Chicago has the same buying power as $101,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 115).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Chemical Engineer Salaries in Chicago
The median chemical engineer salary in Chicago, IL is $116,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 0% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 115 (national average = 100), Chicago offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level chemical engineers in Chicago can expect to earn between $76,000 and $100,000 (about $41.35/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $189,000 ($189K annually, or about $90.87/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chemical Engineer Salary in Chicago
What is the average Chemical Engineer salary in Chicago?+
The average Chemical Engineer salary in Chicago is $116,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $86,000 and senior-level pay reaches $158,000.
How much does an entry-level chemical engineer make in Chicago?+
Entry-level chemical engineers in Chicago earn between $76,000 and $100,000, with a median of $86,000 per year (about $41.35/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Chemical Engineer in Chicago?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Chemical Engineer in Chicago earns roughly $41.35/hour at entry-level, $55.77/hour at mid-level, and $75.96/hour at senior-level.
Is the Chemical Engineer salary in Chicago higher than the US average?+
Yes — Chemical Engineer salaries in Chicago are about 0% higher than the US national median of $116,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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