ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Research Scientist Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$185,011/yr
Typical range: $159,708 – $242,555
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in San Francisco
Research Scientist Salary Progression in San Francisco
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 | $127,933 | $10,661 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $161,392 | $13,449 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $185,011 | $15,418 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $210,597 | $17,550 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $265,707 | $22,142 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $308,220 | $25,685 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $318,848 | $26,571 | +149% |
Current Salary
$185,011
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $89/hr
Next Level Target
$210,597
Senior · 6
+$26Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Research Scientist salary in San Francisco, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Research Scientists in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $185K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Research Scientist make per hour in San Francisco, CA?
Based on $185K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $89/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Research Scientist in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in San Francisco, CA earns $243K–$293K/yr.