ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Chemist Salary in Seattle
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$134,010/yr
Typical range: $154,346 – $186,359
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Chemist salary by experience level in Seattle
Chemist Salary Progression in Seattle
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 | $81,408 | $6,784 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $102,699 | $8,558 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $117,728 | $9,811 | +45% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $134,010 | $11,168 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $169,078 | $14,090 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $196,131 | $16,344 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $202,894 | $16,908 | +149% |
Current Salary
$134,010
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $64/hr
Next Level Target
$169,078
Staff · 10
+$35Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
32/100
High Risk
+5% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Chemist salary in Seattle, WA?
Senior Chemists in Seattle, WA earn approximately $134K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Chemist make per hour in Seattle, WA?
Based on $134K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $64/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Chemist in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Chemist in Seattle, WA earns $154K–$186K/yr.