ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Materials Scientist Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$155,517/yr
Typical range: $134,249 – $203,888
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Materials Scientist salary by experience level in San Francisco
Materials Scientist Salary Progression in San Francisco
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 | $107,539 | $8,962 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $135,664 | $11,305 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $155,517 | $12,960 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $177,025 | $14,752 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $223,349 | $18,612 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $259,085 | $21,590 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $268,019 | $22,335 | +149% |
Current Salary
$155,517
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $75/hr
Next Level Target
$177,025
Senior · 6
+$22Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
51/100
Moderate
+14% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Materials Scientist salary in San Francisco, CA?
Mid Level Materials Scientists in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $156K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Materials Scientist make per hour in San Francisco, CA?
Based on $156K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $75/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Materials Scientist in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Materials Scientist in San Francisco, CA earns $204K–$246K/yr.