ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Materials Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$170,870/yr
Typical range: $196,800 – $237,619
P75 · 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-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $150,110 | $12,509 | +45% |
| SeniorThis page | 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
$170,870
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $82/hr
Next Level Target
$215,584
Staff · 10
+$45Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
51/100
Moderate
+14% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Materials Scientist salary in Washington DC, DC?
Senior Materials Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $171K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Materials Scientist make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $171K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $82/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior 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.