ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Materials Scientist Salary in Seattle
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$148,244/yr
Typical range: $127,970 – $194,352
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Materials Scientist salary by experience level in Seattle
Materials Scientist Salary Progression in Seattle
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 | $102,509 | $8,542 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $129,319 | $10,777 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $148,244 | $12,354 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $168,745 | $14,062 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $212,903 | $17,742 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $246,968 | $20,581 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $255,484 | $21,290 | +149% |
Current Salary
$148,244
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $71/hr
Next Level Target
$168,745
Senior · 6
+$21Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
51/100
Moderate
+14% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Materials Scientist salary in Seattle, WA?
3–5 Years Experience Materials Scientists in Seattle, WA earn approximately $148K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Materials Scientist make per hour in Seattle, WA?
Based on $148K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $71/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Materials Scientist in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Materials Scientist in Seattle, WA earns $194K–$235K/yr.