ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years

Senior Biologist Salary in Washington DC

2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.

$135,604/yr

Typical range: $156,182 $188,576

P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

Biologist Salary Progression in Washington DC

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

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$82,376$6,865
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$103,921$8,660+26%
Mid-Level4 yrs4 yrs$119,129$9,927+45%
SeniorThis page6 yrs6 yrs$135,604$11,300+65%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$171,090$14,258+108%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$198,464$16,539+141%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$205,307$17,109+149%
Current Salary
$135,604
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $65/hr
Next Level Target
$171,090
Staff · 10
+$35Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+6% demand · Low AI risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the senior Biologist salary in Washington DC, DC?

Senior Biologists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $136K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.

How much does a senior Biologist make per hour in Washington DC, DC?

Based on $136K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $65/hr (2,080-hour work year).

How do I get from senior to senior Biologist in Washington DC, DC?

The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Biologist in Washington DC, DC earns $156K–$189K/yr.