ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Biologist Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$141,916/yr
Typical range: $122,507 – $186,056
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Biologist salary by experience level in San Francisco
Biologist Salary Progression in San Francisco
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 | $98,133 | $8,178 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $123,799 | $10,317 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $141,916 | $11,826 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $161,542 | $13,462 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $203,815 | $16,985 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $236,425 | $19,702 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $244,578 | $20,382 | +149% |
Current Salary
$141,916
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $68/hr
Next Level Target
$161,542
Senior · 6
+$20Kpotential 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 San Francisco, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Biologists in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $142K 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 San Francisco, CA?
Based on $142K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $68/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Biologist in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Biologist in San Francisco, CA earns $186K–$225K/yr.