ScienceGovernment / OECD · 96/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientist Salary in Sydney
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$122,035/yr
Typical range: $111,401 – $134,508
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Environmental Scientist salary by experience level in Sydney
Environmental Scientist Salary Progression in Sydney
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 | $58,757 | $4,896 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $74,125 | $6,177 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $84,972 | $7,081 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $96,724 | $8,060 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $122,035 | $10,170 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $141,560 | $11,797 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $146,442 | $12,204 | +149% |
Current Salary
$122,035
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $59/hr
Next Level Target
$141,560
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 Sydney, Australia?
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientists in Sydney, Australia earn approximately $122K 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 Sydney, Australia?
Based on $122K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $59/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Environmental Scientist in Sydney, Australia?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Environmental Scientist in Sydney, Australia earns $111K–$135K/yr.