ScienceGovernment / OECD · 96/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in Toronto
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$156,597/yr
Typical range: $142,953 – $172,603
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Toronto
Research Scientist Salary Progression in Toronto
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 | $75,399 | $6,283 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $95,118 | $7,927 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $109,038 | $9,087 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $124,118 | $10,343 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $156,597 | $13,050 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $181,653 | $15,138 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $187,917 | $15,660 | +149% |
Current Salary
$156,597
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $75/hr
Next Level Target
$181,653
Principal · 14
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in Toronto, Canada?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in Toronto, Canada earn approximately $157K 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 Toronto, Canada?
Based on $157K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $75/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Research Scientist in Toronto, Canada?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Toronto, Canada earns $143K–$173K/yr.