EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Aerospace Engineer Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$186,644/yr
Typical range: $160,500 – $240,494
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Aerospace Engineer salary by experience level in Washington DC
Aerospace Engineer Salary Progression in Washington DC
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $137,527 | $11,461 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $166,997 | $13,916 | +21% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $186,644 | $15,554 | +36% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $211,398 | $17,617 | +54% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $271,124 | $22,594 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $318,277 | $26,523 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $330,065 | $27,505 | +140% |
Current Salary
$186,644
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $90/hr
Next Level Target
$211,398
Senior · 6
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+6% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Aerospace Engineer salary in Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Aerospace Engineers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $187K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Aerospace Engineer make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $187K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $90/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Aerospace Engineer in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Aerospace Engineer in Washington DC, DC earns $240K–$289K/yr.