For the first time since the survey was established in 2005, the average salaries reported by respondents declined — from $107,804 in 2009 to $97,554 this year. Until now, average salaries have steadily increased. In 2005, the average salary was $85,234; in 2006, $89,690; in 2007, $90,038; and in 2008, $95,231. (Table 1). Small percentage declines in those reporting annual incomes within the $115,000 to $125,000 pay ranges and increases in those earning $80,000 to $95,000 account for the decrease in the average salaries reported.
| Year | Salary | Raise | Bonus | Age | Responses |
| 2010 | $97,554 | 3.68% | $5,835 | 47.8 | 1,827 |
| 2009 | $107,804 | 4.23% | $6,407 | 47.3 | 1,528 |
| 2008 | $95,231 | 5.06% | $6,561 | 45.7 | 1,078 |
| 2007 | $90,038 | 4.28% | $6,069 | 46.3 | 1,830 |
| 2006 | $89,690 | 3.84% | $4,795 | 46 | 1,258 |
| 2005 | $85,234 | 3% | $4,534 | 46 | 1,205 |
How the Data Were Gathered
A total of 1,827 respondents participated in this year's survey. That's second only to 2007 when 1,830 people answered our questions.
Since mid-January, respondents accessed the survey questionnaire via a link listed in the print edition of Chemical Processing, on the www.ChemicalProcessing.com Web site, and in e-newsletters and e-mail blasts sent to readers. Additionally, those who follow Chemical Processing on Twitter at Chem_Processing and Facebook at Chemical Processing Magazine were also encouraged to participate.
Read the full story: Clouds of Concern Begin to Clear -- CP's 2010 Salary and Job Satisfaction Survey