As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Biologist II in the United States is $66,832 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $32.
However, a Biologist II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Biologist II'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, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Biologist II'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 |
|---|---|---|
| Biologist I | 0-2 years | $57,847 |
| Biologist II | 2-4 years | $66,832 |
| Biologist III | 4-7 years | $83,434 |
| Biologist IV | 7+ years | $120,822 |
| Biologist V | 7-10 years | $137,005 |
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 Biologist IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 9.53% |
| SOP | 2.46% |
| Environmental Compliance | 1.81% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Drug Discovery
|
$82,872 |
24%
|
|
Resourcing
|
$78,193 |
17%
|
|
Cell Biology
|
$76,857 |
15%
|
|
Immunology
|
$76,188 |
14%
|
|
Cell Culture
|
$74,184 |
11%
|
|
SOP
|
$73,515 |
10%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Biologist IIs enter the field with a Bachelor's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Biologist II with a Bachelor's Degree is between $64,405 and $69,282).
Biologist II Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.5% |
| High School | 42.9% |
| Associates | 44.4% |
| Bachelors | 42.9% |
| Masters | 44.4% |
| Doctorate | 12.1% |
Understanding how a Biologist II'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 May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Biologist II, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Biologist III | $83,434 | 25% |
| Geologist III | $85,641 | 28% |
| Geophysicist III | $141,360 | 112% |
| Microbiologist III | $83,096 | 24% |
Salaries for a Biologist II can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $64,873 in 2023 to around $64,551 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Biologist II salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $64,873 |
| 2024 | $64,758 |
| 2025 | $64,551 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Biologist II's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Biologist II earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Biologist II is $84,295.
The highest pay for Biologist II is $78,767.
The lowest pay for Biologist II is $50,419.
Uncovers and verifies the specific molecular "weak spots" of a disease through rigorous laboratory testing to provide the essential data needed to turn a discovery into a real-world medicine. Pinpoints exactly how a sickness develops and how new treatments can safely stop it by studying the chemical processes of cells and microorganisms. Isolates key proteins to ensure experimental drugs are both effective and non-toxic. May require an advanced degree. Typically reports to a manager. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Typically requires 2-4 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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