ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$227,551/yr
Typical range: $207,724 – $250,808
P90 · 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-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $158,443 | $13,204 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $180,355 | $15,030 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 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
$227,551
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $109/hr
Next Level Target
$263,959
Principal · 14
+$36Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $228K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $228K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $109/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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.