Mid-Level Ai Engineer Salary in Chicago (2026)
Mid-Level Ai Engineers in Chicago earn a median base salary of $158K per year, based on 5,000 verified data points. This guide covers salary ranges, total comp, and negotiation tactics specific to the mid-level level in 2026.
Find Mid-Level Ai Engineer jobs in Chicago on Jobs and Careers
Ai Engineer salary by level in Chicago
See how mid-level-level pay compares to other seniority bands for the same role and location.
* Figures are approximate estimates relative to the mid-level-level verified data above.
What does a Mid-Level Ai Engineer earn in Chicago in 2026?
The median base salary for a Mid-Level Ai Engineer in Chicago is $158K per year, with the 25th–75th percentile range spanning $128K–$202K. Total annual compensation — including bonuses and equity — typically reaches $189K at the median for mid-level-level engineers.
At the mid-level level, engineers are working independently and delivering end-to-end features. Compensation has moved meaningfully above junior levels, and further progression to senior typically comes within 2–4 years for high performers.
To negotiate effectively, open at $184K — the 65th percentile for this level and location — which gives you room to settle above median while appearing reasonable. Know your walk-away floor: $128K.
Find Mid-Level Ai Engineer jobs in Chicago
on Jobs and Careers
Top-paying companies for Mid-Level Ai Engineers in Chicago
| Company | Median Base |
|---|---|
| OpenAI | $310K |
| Anthropic | $295K |
| Google DeepMind | $235K |
| Meta AI | $225K |
| Cohere | $215K |
Skills that pay more at the mid-level level
Negotiating an offer at the mid-level level?
Get a personalised offer analysis with exact counter-offer scripts for Mid-Level Ai Engineers in Chicago.
Get my negotiation playbookFree for candidates · 2 minutes.