ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Biologist Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$119,885/yr
Typical range: $103,489 – $157,173
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Biologist salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Biologist Salary Progression in Los Angeles
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 | $82,899 | $6,908 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $104,580 | $8,715 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $119,885 | $9,990 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $136,465 | $11,372 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $172,175 | $14,348 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $199,723 | $16,644 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $206,610 | $17,218 | +149% |
Current Salary
$119,885
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $58/hr
Next Level Target
$136,465
Senior · 6
+$17Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+6% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Biologist salary in Los Angeles, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Biologists in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $120K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Biologist make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $120K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $58/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Biologist in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Biologist in Los Angeles, CA earns $157K–$190K/yr.