As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Clinical Programmer I in the United States is $72,144 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.
However, a Clinical Programmer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Clinical Programmer I'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 Clinical Programmer I'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 |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Programmer I | 0-2 years | $72,144 |
| Clinical Programmer II | 2-4 years | $97,884 |
| Clinical Programmer III | 4-7 years | $107,653 |
| Clinical Programmer IV | 7+ years | $134,689 |
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 Clinical Programmer Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 4.91% |
| Biotechnology | 2.4% |
| SOP | 1.83% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Effective Communication
|
$82,244 |
14%
|
|
Programming Language
|
$78,637 |
9%
|
|
Cardiology
|
$78,637 |
9%
|
|
Data Transfer
|
$77,916 |
8%
|
|
Clinical Research
|
$77,194 |
7%
|
|
Statistical Analysis
|
$75,751 |
5%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Clinical Programmer Is enter the field with a Associate'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 Clinical Programmer I with a Associate's Degree is between $67,620 and $71,591).
Clinical Programmer I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 2.3% |
| High School | 39.5% |
| Associates | 2.3% |
| Bachelors | 39.5% |
| Masters | 53.5% |
| Doctorate | 4.7% |
Understanding how a Clinical Programmer I'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 January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Clinical Programmer I, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| EHR Certified Application Analyst I | $84,163 | 17% |
| Clinical Programmer II | $97,884 | 36% |
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Clinical Programmer I and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Clinical Programmer I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A Clinical Programmer I'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 Clinical Programmer I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Clinical Programmer I is $90,995.
The highest pay for Clinical Programmer I is $86,598.
The lowest pay for Clinical Programmer I is $64,420.
Evaluates, develops, and maintains clinical database and analyzes clinical data. Codes, tests and documents databases. Performs data validation and develops algorithms for data management, typically using SAS programming language. May require a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. Typically requires 0-2 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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