As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Research Associate I - Academic in Colorado is $59,960 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.
However, a Research Associate I - Academic's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Research Associate I - Academic's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Research Associate I - Academic's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Research Associate I - Academic | 0-2 years | $59,953 |
| Intermediate Researcher - Academic | 4-7 years | $78,183 |
| Research Associate III - Academic | 7+ years | $92,314 |
| College Dean | 7+ years | $232,896 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Research Associate I - Academics. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Research Associate I - Academic salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $67,122. While startup companies pay approximate $56,783.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $56,783 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $60,055 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $64,818 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $67,122 |
For Research Associate I - Academic roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 55% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Financial Services and Internet sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 25% above the average. In contrast, Research Associate I - Academic positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Hospitality & Leisure typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Research Associate I - Academic as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Services | $74,950 | $36.0 | 25% |
| Internet | $74,950 | $36.0 | 25% |
| Software & Networking | $74,950 | $36.0 | 25% |
| Biotechnology | $71,952 | $35.0 | 20% |
| Healthcare | $68,954 | $33.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a Research Associate I - Academic's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Research Associate I - Academic, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instructional Designer II | $60,900 | 2% |
| Associate Dean of Career Development | $98,400 | 64% |
| Associate Dean of Computer and Information Systems | $169,800 | 183% |
| Educational Consultant | $117,201 | 95% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Research Associate I - Academic job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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