ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Environmental Scientist Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$124,205/yr
Typical range: $143,052 – $172,723
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Environmental Scientist salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Environmental Scientist Salary Progression in Los Angeles
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 | $75,451 | $6,288 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $95,185 | $7,932 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $109,114 | $9,093 | +45% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $124,205 | $10,350 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $156,707 | $13,059 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $181,780 | $15,148 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $188,048 | $15,671 | +149% |
Current Salary
$124,205
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $60/hr
Next Level Target
$156,707
Staff · 10
+$33Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Environmental Scientist salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Senior Environmental Scientists in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $124K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Environmental Scientist make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $124K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $60/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Environmental Scientist in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Environmental Scientist in Los Angeles, CA earns $143K–$173K/yr.