ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Research Scientist Salary in Seattle
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$182,385/yr
Typical range: $210,061 – $253,631
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Seattle
Research Scientist Salary Progression in Seattle
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 | $110,794 | $9,233 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $139,771 | $11,648 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $160,226 | $13,352 | +45% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $182,385 | $15,199 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $230,112 | $19,176 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $266,929 | $22,244 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $276,134 | $23,011 | +149% |
Current Salary
$182,385
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $88/hr
Next Level Target
$230,112
Staff · 10
+$48Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Research Scientist salary in Seattle, WA?
Senior Research Scientists in Seattle, WA earn approximately $182K 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 Seattle, WA?
Based on $182K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $88/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Research Scientist in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Seattle, WA earns $210K–$254K/yr.