Illinois’ 10 Highest Paid State Employees

Topping the list of Illinois' highest-paid state workers are individuals whose salaries reflect a blend of expertise, responsibility, and political influence. Below is a detailed rundown of these top 10 earners, highlighting their roles and contributions to the state's operations.

In Illinois, the 10 highest-paid state workers have always been the subject of public fascination, their salaries stirring debate and curiosity alike.

The State Journal-Register shared that in 2023, Illinois paid its more than 124,000 workers a cumulative salary of over $6 billion. That data is from the Illinois Comptroller's office.

The Top 10 Paid State Workers in 2023

10. Jermaine McGee

• Title: State Toll Highway Master Trooper
• 2023 Pay: $325,200

9. Abdul Saboor

• Title: Illinois Department of Human Services Physician Specialist
• 2023 Pay: $327,200

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8. Ali Minhas

• Title: Illinois Department of Human Services Physician Specialist
• 2023 Pay: $327,400

7. Steven Bowman

• Title: Illinois Department of Corrections Medical Administrator
• 2023 Pay: $328,500

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6. Johara Farhadieh

• Title: Director of State Board of Investments
• 2023 Pay: $336,300

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5. Tanveer Shan

• Title: Illinois Department of Human Services Physician Specialist
• 2023 Pay: $338,200

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4. Kevin Kelliher

• Title: State Toll Highway Sergeant
• 2023 Pay: $340,100

3. Herbert Fernandes

• Title: Illinois Department of Human Services Physician Specialist
• 2023 Pay: $345,200

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2. Tommie King

• Title: Illinois State Police Sergeant
• 2023 Pay: $368,400

1. Rita Pavate

• Title: Illinois Department of Human Services Physician Specialist
• 2023 Pay: $382,500

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