ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$157,681/yr
Typical range: $143,942 – $173,798
P90 · 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-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $109,793 | $9,149 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $124,977 | $10,415 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 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
$157,681
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $76/hr
Next Level Target
$182,910
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 Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead Environmental Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $158K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $158K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $76/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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.