TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years

Mid Level Autonomous Systems Engineer Salary in Washington DC

2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.

$203,370/yr

Typical range: $170,831 $270,154

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$146,082$12,174
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$180,455$15,038+24%
Mid-LevelThis page4 yrs4 yrs$203,370$16,948+39%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$235,450$19,621+61%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$317,944$26,495+118%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$398,719$33,227+173%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$418,913$34,909+187%
Current Salary
$203,370
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $98/hr
Next Level Target
$235,450
Senior · 6
+$32Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
91/100
Exceptional
+42% demand · Low AI risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mid level Autonomous Systems Engineer salary in Washington DC, DC?

Mid Level Autonomous Systems Engineers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $203K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.

How much does a mid level Autonomous Systems Engineer make per hour in Washington DC, DC?

Based on $203K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $98/hr (2,080-hour work year).

How do I get from mid level 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 $270K–$332K/yr.