ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientist Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$156,707/yr
Typical range: $143,052 – $172,723
P90 · 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% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $124,205 | $10,350 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 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
$156,707
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $75/hr
Next Level Target
$181,780
Principal · 14
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Environmental Scientist salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientists in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $157K 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 Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $157K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $75/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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.