ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Environmental Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$109,793/yr
Typical range: $94,777 – $143,942
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Environmental Scientist salary by experience level in Washington DC
Environmental Scientist Salary Progression in Washington DC
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 | $75,921 | $6,327 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $95,777 | $7,981 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $109,793 | $9,149 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $124,977 | $10,415 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $157,681 | $13,140 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $182,910 | $15,243 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $189,218 | $15,768 | +149% |
Current Salary
$109,793
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $53/hr
Next Level Target
$124,977
Senior · 6
+$15Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
36/100
Below Average
+7% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Environmental Scientist salary in Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Environmental Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $110K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Environmental Scientist make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $110K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $53/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Environmental Scientist in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Environmental Scientist in Washington DC, DC earns $144K–$174K/yr.