▼54%
$123,572
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$85k
MEDIAN
$124k
90%
$163k
The average salary for a Chief Engineer is $123,572 in 2025
Base Salary
$85k - $163k
Bonus
$631 - $13k
Total Pay
$69k - $153k
Is Average Chief Engineer Salary in Chicago, Illinois your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Chief Engineers?
What Do Chief Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Chief Engineer
Medical
78%
Dental
78%
Vision
78%
None
22%
Gender Breakdown for Chief Engineers
Male
100.0%
This data is based on 11 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Chief Engineers
What is the highest pay for Chief Engineers in Chicago?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Chief Engineer in Chicago is $163k / year
What is the lowest pay for Chief Engineers in Chicago?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Chief Engineer in Chicago is $85k / year
How can Chief Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Chief Engineer is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Chief Engineer that oversees more junior Chief Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.