TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Data Engineer Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$180,863/yr
Typical range: $151,925 – $240,256
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Data Engineer salary by experience level in Washington DC
Data Engineer 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 | $129,915 | $10,826 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $160,484 | $13,374 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $180,863 | $15,072 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $209,393 | $17,449 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $282,757 | $23,563 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $354,593 | $29,549 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $372,551 | $31,046 | +187% |
Current Salary
$180,863
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $87/hr
Next Level Target
$209,393
Senior · 6
+$29Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
71/100
Above Average
+34% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Data Engineer salary in Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Data Engineers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $181K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Data Engineer make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $181K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $87/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Data Engineer in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Data Engineer in Washington DC, DC earns $240K–$295K/yr.