ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Geologist Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$117,637/yr
Typical range: $101,549 – $154,226
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Geologist salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Geologist 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 | $81,345 | $6,779 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $102,620 | $8,552 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $117,637 | $9,803 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $133,906 | $11,159 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $168,947 | $14,079 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $195,979 | $16,332 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $202,737 | $16,895 | +149% |
Current Salary
$117,637
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $57/hr
Next Level Target
$133,906
Senior · 6
+$16Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Geologist salary in Los Angeles, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Geologists in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $118K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Geologist make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $118K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $57/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Geologist in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Geologist in Los Angeles, CA earns $154K–$186K/yr.