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Research and Development Associate I Salary in Illinois

How much does a Research and Development Associate I make in Illinois?

As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Research and Development Associate I in Illinois is $72,182 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.

However, a Research and Development Associate I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $87,762
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $63,858 to $80,337
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $56,280

Key Factors That Influence Research and Development Associate I Salaries

A Research and Development Associate I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Experience Level Affects Research and Development Associate I Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Research and Development Associate I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:

  • Research and Development Associate I (0-2 years): $72,182
  • Research and Development Associate II (2-4 years): $83,950
  • Research and Development Associate III (4-7 years): $101,577
  • Research and Development Associate IV (7+ years): $133,935
  • Research and Development Associate V (7-10 years): $163,542
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Research and Development Associate I0-2 years$72,182
Research and Development Associate II2-4 years$83,950
Research and Development Associate III4-7 years$101,577
Research and Development Associate IV7+ years$133,935
Research and Development Associate V7-10 years$163,542

Top Paying Cities for Research and Development Associate I

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • Effingham: $66,537
  • Saint Peter: $66,446
  • Salem: $66,699

Research and Development Associate I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Research and Development Associate I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $80,803. While startup companies pay approximate $68,358.

Research and Development Associate I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $68,358
Growth Stage 51~500 $72,296
Established 501~5000 $78,030
Enterprise 5000+ $80,803

Research and Development Associate I Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Research and Development Associate I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 65% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Software & Networking and Pharmaceuticals sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 35% above the average. In contrast, Research and Development Associate positions in Hospitality & Leisure or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Research and Development Associate I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a Research and Development Associate I

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Software & Networking$95,600$46.035%
Pharmaceuticals$92,060$44.030%
Biotechnology$88,519$43.025%
Financial Services$88,519$43.025%
Internet$84,978$41.020%

Research and Development Associate I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Research and Development Associate I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on August 01, 2026
$63,858
Average $72,182/year
$80,337
$5,322
Average $6,015/month
$6,695
$1,228
Average $1,388/week
$1,545
$31
Average $35/hour
$39
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $80,337 $6,695 $1,545 $39
Average $72,182 $6,015 $1,388 $35
25th Percentile $63,858 $5,322 $1,228 $31

Research and Development Associate I Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Research and Development Associate I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Research and Development Associate I Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Human Factors Researcher II $101,381 40%
Research and Development Engineer $119,188 65%
Research and Development Associate II $83,950 16%

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Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons are derived from both employer job postings and third-party data sources. We also provide multiple percentiles of salary information for your reference, click here to know Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial to Getting Pay Equity Right. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.

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