ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Materials Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$150,110/yr
Typical range: $129,581 – $196,800
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Materials Scientist salary by experience level in Washington DC
Materials 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 | $103,800 | $8,650 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $130,947 | $10,912 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $150,110 | $12,509 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $170,870 | $14,239 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $215,584 | $17,965 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $250,078 | $20,840 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $258,701 | $21,558 | +149% |
Current Salary
$150,110
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $72/hr
Next Level Target
$170,870
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 Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Materials Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $150K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $150K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $72/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Materials Scientist in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Materials Scientist in Washington DC, DC earns $197K–$238K/yr.