Media Jobs in Chicago
3 open roles · Typical salary $52K–$145K
Chicago is the third-largest US media market and the historic home of Publicis-owned shops Starcom and Spark Foundry. Leo Burnett and FCB also run significant Chicago planning and buying operations, alongside independents like Energy BBDO and Cramer-Krasselt. The market has deep CPG, retail, and B2B client relationships.
Compensation tracks below NYC and LA but cost of living is meaningfully lower, particularly for housing. Mid-level planners earn $65–$80K; senior and supervisor roles range $85–$120K. Bonuses at Publicis-network shops can add 10–20% in good years.
Hybrid (3 days/week) is standard, with most agencies clustered in the Loop or River North. Chicago is also a strong remote-friendly market for senior IC roles given the CST timezone advantage for serving both coasts.
Open Chicago roles
Top employers hiring in Chicago
- Starcom
- Spark Foundry
- Leo Burnett
- FCB
- Energy BBDO
- Cramer-Krasselt
- DDB Chicago
- Havas Chicago
- Burrell Communications
FAQs
How much do media planners make in Chicago?
Entry-level $45–$55K. Mid-level $65–$80K. Senior $85–$110K. Director and VP roles at Publicis-network shops range $125–$190K+ with bonus.
Which Chicago agencies are best for new media planners?
Starcom and Spark Foundry both run sizable associate and coordinator programs and hire predictably each year. Leo Burnett and FCB take fewer entry-level hires but offer stronger creative-integrated planning training. Cramer-Krasselt and Energy BBDO are good independents to consider.
Is Chicago good for programmatic or ad ops careers?
Solid but smaller than NYC or LA. Publicis runs dedicated programmatic teams (Performics, Spark Foundry biddable), and the holding company tech stacks are well-represented. Independent ad ops roles are less common.
Are Chicago agencies hiring remotely?
Some, especially at senior IC levels. Most mid-level and below roles still require Chicago-area presence with 2–3 days/week in office.