EducationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead University Professor Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$181,148/yr
Typical range: $181,123 – $207,045
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
University Professor salary by experience level in Washington DC
University Professor 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 | $124,930 | $10,411 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $140,546 | $11,712 | +12% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $150,957 | $12,580 | +21% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $161,159 | $13,430 | +29% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $181,148 | $15,096 | +45% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $196,139 | $16,345 | +57% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $199,887 | $16,657 | +60% |
Current Salary
$181,148
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $87/hr
Next Level Target
$196,139
Principal · 14
+$15Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
41/100
Below Average
+5% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead University Professor salary in Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead University Professors in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $181K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead University Professor make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $181K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $87/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior University Professor in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior University Professor in Washington DC, DC earns $181K–$207K/yr.