ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Chemist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$133,354/yr
Typical range: $153,590 – $185,447
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Chemist salary by experience level in Washington DC
Chemist Salary Progression in Washington DC
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 | $81,010 | $6,751 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $102,197 | $8,516 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $117,152 | $9,763 | +45% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $133,354 | $11,113 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $168,251 | $14,021 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $195,171 | $16,264 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $201,901 | $16,825 | +149% |
Current Salary
$133,354
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $64/hr
Next Level Target
$168,251
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 Washington DC, DC?
Senior Chemists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $133K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $133K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $64/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Chemist in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Chemist in Washington DC, DC earns $154K–$185K/yr.