ScienceGovernment / OECD · 96/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in Sydney
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$171,235/yr
Typical range: $156,315 – $188,737
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Sydney
Research Scientist Salary Progression in Sydney
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 | $82,447 | $6,871 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $104,010 | $8,668 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $119,231 | $9,936 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $135,720 | $11,310 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $171,235 | $14,270 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $198,633 | $16,553 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $205,482 | $17,124 | +149% |
Current Salary
$171,235
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $82/hr
Next Level Target
$198,633
Principal · 14
+$27Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in Sydney, Australia?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in Sydney, Australia earn approximately $171K 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 Sydney, Australia?
Based on $171K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $82/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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.