ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in Dallas
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$166,146/yr
Typical range: $151,669 – $183,127
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Dallas
Research Scientist Salary Progression in Dallas
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 | $79,996 | $6,666 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $100,918 | $8,410 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $115,687 | $9,641 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $131,686 | $10,974 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $166,146 | $13,846 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $192,729 | $16,061 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $199,375 | $16,615 | +149% |
Current Salary
$166,146
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $80/hr
Next Level Target
$192,729
Principal · 14
+$27Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in Dallas, TX?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in Dallas, TX earn approximately $166K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Research Scientist make per hour in Dallas, TX?
Based on $166K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $80/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Research Scientist in Dallas, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Dallas, TX earns $152K–$183K/yr.