EngineeringOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Nuclear Engineer Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$211,891/yr
Typical range: $241,054 – $289,288
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Nuclear Engineer salary by experience level in Washington DC
Nuclear Engineer 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 | $137,848 | $11,487 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $167,386 | $13,949 | +21% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $187,079 | $15,590 | +36% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $211,891 | $17,658 | +54% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $271,757 | $22,646 | +97% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $319,019 | $26,585 | +131% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $330,834 | $27,570 | +140% |
Current Salary
$211,891
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $102/hr
Next Level Target
$271,757
Staff · 10
+$60Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
41/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Nuclear Engineer salary in Washington DC, DC?
Senior Nuclear Engineers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $212K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Nuclear Engineer make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $212K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $102/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Nuclear Engineer in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Nuclear Engineer in Washington DC, DC earns $241K–$289K/yr.