ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientist Salary in Boston
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$159,994/yr
Typical range: $146,053 – $176,347
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Environmental Scientist salary by experience level in Boston
Environmental Scientist Salary Progression in Boston
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 | $77,034 | $6,420 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $97,181 | $8,098 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $111,403 | $9,284 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $126,810 | $10,568 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $159,994 | $13,333 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $185,593 | $15,466 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $191,993 | $15,999 | +149% |
Current Salary
$159,994
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $77/hr
Next Level Target
$185,593
Principal · 14
+$26Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Environmental Scientist salary in Boston, MA?
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientists in Boston, MA earn approximately $160K 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 Boston, MA?
Based on $160K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $77/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Environmental Scientist in Boston, MA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Environmental Scientist in Boston, MA earns $146K–$176K/yr.