ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Research Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$158,443/yr
Typical range: $136,774 – $207,724
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Washington DC
Research Scientist Salary Progression in Washington DC
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 | $109,561 | $9,130 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $138,216 | $11,518 | +26% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $158,443 | $13,204 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $180,355 | $15,030 | +65% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $227,551 | $18,963 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $263,959 | $21,997 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $273,061 | $22,755 | +149% |
Current Salary
$158,443
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $76/hr
Next Level Target
$180,355
Senior · 6
+$22Kpotential 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 Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Research Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $158K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $158K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $76/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Research Scientist in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Washington DC, DC earns $208K–$251K/yr.