ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$229,312/yr
Typical range: $209,332 – $252,750
P90 · 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 | $110,410 | $9,201 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $139,286 | $11,607 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $159,669 | $13,306 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $181,751 | $15,146 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $229,312 | $19,109 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $266,002 | $22,167 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $275,175 | $22,931 | +149% |
Current Salary
$229,312
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $110/hr
Next Level Target
$266,002
Principal · 14
+$37Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $229K 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 Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $229K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $110/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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 $209K–$253K/yr.