ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Climate Scientist Salary in Austin
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$101,311/yr
Typical range: $87,456 – $132,822
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Climate Scientist salary by experience level in Austin
Climate Scientist Salary Progression in Austin
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 | $70,056 | $5,838 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $88,378 | $7,365 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $101,311 | $8,443 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $115,322 | $9,610 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $145,500 | $12,125 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $168,780 | $14,065 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $174,600 | $14,550 | +149% |
Current Salary
$101,311
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $49/hr
Next Level Target
$115,322
Senior · 6
+$14Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
64/100
Good
+22% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Climate Scientist salary in Austin, TX?
3–5 Years Experience Climate Scientists in Austin, TX earn approximately $101K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Climate Scientist make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $101K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $49/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Climate Scientist in Austin, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Climate Scientist in Austin, TX earns $133K–$160K/yr.