ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Research Scientist Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$144,347/yr
Typical range: $166,252 – $200,735
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Research Scientist Salary Progression in Los Angeles
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 | $87,688 | $7,307 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $110,621 | $9,218 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $126,810 | $10,568 | +45% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $144,347 | $12,029 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $182,120 | $15,177 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $211,260 | $17,605 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $218,544 | $18,212 | +149% |
Current Salary
$144,347
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $69/hr
Next Level Target
$182,120
Staff · 10
+$38Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Research Scientist salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Senior Research Scientists in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $144K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Research Scientist make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $144K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $69/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Research Scientist in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Los Angeles, CA earns $166K–$201K/yr.