ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Biologist Salary in Boston
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$157,326/yr
Typical range: $143,618 – $173,406
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Biologist salary by experience level in Boston
Biologist Salary Progression in Boston
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 | $75,750 | $6,313 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $95,561 | $7,963 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $109,546 | $9,129 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $124,696 | $10,391 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $157,326 | $13,111 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $182,499 | $15,208 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $188,792 | $15,733 | +149% |
Current Salary
$157,326
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $76/hr
Next Level Target
$182,499
Principal · 14
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+6% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Biologist salary in Boston, MA?
Staff / Lead Biologists in Boston, MA earn approximately $157K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Biologist make per hour in Boston, MA?
Based on $157K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $76/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Biologist in Boston, MA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Biologist in Boston, MA earns $144K–$173K/yr.