Competitive Salary Range Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry‑level engineers and analysts typically earn $70k–$100k. Mid‑level professionals command $100k–$150k. Senior engineers and architects range from $150k–$200k. Lead or principal positions fall between $200k–$250k, while directors, VPs, and senior leadership can earn $250k–$350k, depending on industry, geography, and technical depth.

Core technical skills include Python, Java, or Go; cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP; containerization with Docker and Kubernetes; infrastructure‑as‑code tools like Terraform; and data science frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch. Certifications that boost credibility are AWS Certified Solutions Architect, GCP Professional Cloud Architect, Certified Kubernetes Administrator, and CISSP or CEH for security roles.

Approximately 80% of positions in this category offer fully remote or hybrid arrangements, especially for cloud, AI, and DevOps roles. Remote‑first companies such as HashiCorp, Snowflake, and Databricks list all 5,261 roles with a remote option, allowing candidates to choose locations that match their desired compensation band.

A common trajectory starts with Junior Engineer → Engineer → Senior Engineer → Lead Engineer/Principal → Architect → Engineering Manager → Director/VP. Progression timelines vary but usually span 2–4 years per promotion; moving from a mid‑level engineer to a senior role often takes 3–5 years, while reaching a director level can take 8–10 years of experience and proven project leadership.

Key trends include accelerated AI/ML adoption (70% increase in enterprise AI spend), cloud‑native architecture expanding into edge computing, the rise of low‑code platforms, and heightened demand for cybersecurity talent due to a 30% rise in ransomware attacks. Companies are also investing in 5G and IoT integration, driving new roles that blend network engineering with data analytics.