TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Program Manager Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$294,268/yr
Typical range: $250,037 – $307,455
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Program Manager salary by experience level in Washington DC
Program Manager 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 | $135,204 | $11,267 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $167,017 | $13,918 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $188,226 | $15,686 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $217,918 | $18,160 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $294,268 | $24,522 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $369,028 | $30,752 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $387,719 | $32,310 | +187% |
Current Salary
$294,268
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $141/hr
Next Level Target
$369,028
Principal · 14
+$75Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
47/100
Below Average
+15% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Program Manager salary in Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead Program Managers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $294K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Program Manager make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $294K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $141/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Program Manager in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Program Manager in Washington DC, DC earns $250K–$307K/yr.