TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years

3–5 Years Experience Autonomous Systems Engineer Salary in Washington DC

2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.

$227,868/yr

Typical range: $191,410 $302,698

P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

Autonomous Systems Engineer Salary Progression in Washington DC

From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$163,680$13,640
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$202,193$16,849+24%
Mid-LevelThis page4 yrs4 yrs$227,868$18,989+39%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$263,814$21,985+61%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$356,245$29,687+118%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$446,750$37,229+173%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$469,377$39,115+187%
Current Salary
$227,868
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $110/hr
Next Level Target
$263,814
Senior · 6
+$36Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
91/100
Exceptional
+42% demand · Low AI risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 3–5 years experience Autonomous Systems Engineer salary in Washington DC, DC?

3–5 Years Experience Autonomous Systems Engineers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $228K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.

How much does a 3–5 years experience Autonomous Systems Engineer make per hour in Washington DC, DC?

Based on $228K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $110/hr (2,080-hour work year).

How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Autonomous Systems Engineer in Washington DC, DC?

The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Autonomous Systems Engineer in Washington DC, DC earns $303K–$372K/yr.