ScienceGovernment / OECD · 96/1003–5 years

3–5 Years Experience Research Scientist Salary in Sydney

2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.

$119,231/yr

Typical range: $102,924 $156,315

P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

Research Scientist Salary Progression in Sydney

From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$82,447$6,871
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$104,010$8,668+26%
Mid-LevelThis page4 yrs4 yrs$119,231$9,936+45%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$135,720$11,310+65%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$171,235$14,270+108%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$198,633$16,553+141%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$205,482$17,124+149%
Current Salary
$119,231
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $57/hr
Next Level Target
$135,720
Senior · 6
+$16Kpotential 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 Sydney, Australia?

3–5 Years Experience Research Scientists in Sydney, Australia earn approximately $119K 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 Sydney, Australia?

Based on $119K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $57/hr (2,080-hour work year).

How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Research Scientist in Sydney, Australia?

The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Sydney, Australia earns $156K–$189K/yr.