ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Climate Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$134,175/yr
Typical range: $115,825 – $175,907
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Climate Scientist salary by experience level in Washington DC
Climate Scientist 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 | $92,780 | $7,732 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $117,046 | $9,754 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $134,175 | $11,181 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $152,731 | $12,728 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $192,698 | $16,058 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $223,529 | $18,627 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $231,237 | $19,270 | +149% |
Current Salary
$134,175
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $65/hr
Next Level Target
$152,731
Senior · 6
+$19Kpotential 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 Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Climate Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $134K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $134K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $65/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Climate Scientist in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Climate Scientist in Washington DC, DC earns $176K–$212K/yr.