ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientist Salary in Austin
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$124,462/yr
Typical range: $113,617 – $137,183
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Environmental Scientist salary by experience level in Austin
Environmental 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 | $59,926 | $4,994 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $75,599 | $6,300 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $86,662 | $7,222 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $98,648 | $8,221 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $124,462 | $10,372 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $144,376 | $12,031 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $149,354 | $12,446 | +149% |
Current Salary
$124,462
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $60/hr
Next Level Target
$144,376
Principal · 14
+$20Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Environmental Scientist salary in Austin, TX?
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientists in Austin, TX earn approximately $124K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Environmental Scientist make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $124K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $60/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Environmental Scientist in Austin, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Environmental Scientist in Austin, TX earns $114K–$137K/yr.