H-1B Mechanical Engineer Salary in Chicago, IL 2026

Chicago is the Midwest financial hub with strong fintech, quant trading, and manufacturing presence.

$95,000
Median LCA Wage
$79,000
25th Percentile
$118,000
75th Percentile
~4,500/yr
Annual LCA Filings
SOC Code17-2141
Wage LevelLevel II-III
MetroChicago, IL

Top H-1B Employers in Chicago, IL

Boeing (HQ)CaterpillarNavistarExelonMotorola Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the H-1B prevailing wage for mechanical engineers in Chicago, IL?

DOL prevailing wages for Mechanical Engineers (SOC 17-2141) in Chicago, IL range from $79,000 (Level II) to $118,000 (Level IV). Median LCA wage is approximately $95,000.

Which companies sponsor H-1B for mechanical engineers in Chicago, IL?

Top H-1B sponsors in Chicago, IL: Boeing (HQ), Caterpillar, Navistar, Exelon, Motorola Solutions. Chicago is the Midwest financial hub with strong fintech, quant trading, and manufacturing presence.

Is Chicago, IL a strong H-1B market for mechanical engineers?

Chicago is the Midwest financial hub with strong fintech, quant trading, and manufacturing presence. Median H-1B mechanical engineer wage in Chicago, IL is $95,000, below the national median of $98,000.

What SOC code applies to Mechanical Engineer H-1B petitions?

Mechanical Engineers are filed under SOC 17-2141. Mechanical engineers (SOC 17-2141) have one of the most consistent specialty occupation approvals.

Related: H-1B Salary Guide  · SWE Salary