ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Geologist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$176,364/yr
Typical range: $160,997 – $194,390
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Geologist salary by experience level in Washington DC
Geologist 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 | $84,916 | $7,076 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $107,125 | $8,927 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $122,802 | $10,234 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $139,785 | $11,649 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $176,364 | $14,697 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $204,582 | $17,049 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $211,637 | $17,636 | +149% |
Current Salary
$176,364
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $85/hr
Next Level Target
$204,582
Principal · 14
+$28Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
35/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Geologist salary in Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead Geologists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $176K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Geologist make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $176K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $85/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Geologist in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Geologist in Washington DC, DC earns $161K–$194K/yr.