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Project Administrator I Salary in the United States

How much does a Project Administrator I make in the United States?

As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Project Administrator I in the United States is $60,336 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.

However, a Project Administrator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $77,030
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $52,833 to $69,075
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $46,002
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Project Administrator I Salaries

A Project Administrator I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Project Administrator Is Salaries Vary from State to State?

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 Project Administrator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $66,804.
  • California: $66,551.
  • Massachusetts: $65,664.

Top Paying Cities for Project Administrator I

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $76,102
  • San Francisco: $75,269
  • Oakland: $73,682

Project Administrator I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Project Administrator I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $67,543. While startup companies pay approximate $57,140.

Project Administrator I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $57,140
Growth Stage 51~500 $60,432
Established 501~5000 $65,225
Enterprise 5000+ $67,543

Project Administrator I Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Project Administrator I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Aerospace & Defense and Biotechnology sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Project Administrator positions in Transportation or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Project Administrator I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a Project Administrator I

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Aerospace & Defense$78,437$38.030%
Biotechnology$78,437$38.030%
Energy & Utilities$78,437$38.030%
Financial Services$78,437$38.030%
Healthcare$78,437$38.030%

Project Administrator I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Project Administrator 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 August 01, 2026
$52,833
Average $60,336/year
$69,075
$4,403
Average $5,028/month
$5,756
$1,016
Average $1,160/week
$1,328
$25
Average $29/hour
$33
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $69,075 $5,756 $1,328 $33
Average $60,336 $5,028 $1,160 $29
25th Percentile $52,833 $4,403 $1,016 $25

Project Administrator I Salary Growth & Career Path

Project Administrator I

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Project Administrator 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 Project Manager, Sr. $131,795 118%
Manufacturing Project Management Manager $133,855 122%
Engineering Program Management Supervisor $124,315 106%
Project Administrator II $67,126 11%

Most common benefits for Project Administrator I

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Project Administrator I

Here are companies hiring for Project Administrator I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Project Administrator I

1. Where can a Project Administrator I earn the most?

A Project Administrator 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 Project Administrator I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Project Administrator I is $76,102.

2. What is the highest pay for Project Administrator I?

The highest pay for Project Administrator I is $77,030.

3. What is the lowest pay for Project Administrator I?

The lowest pay for Project Administrator I is $46,002.

4. What are the responsibilities of Project Administrator I?

Supports project management activities by coordinating schedules, maintaining project documentation, and assisting with administrative and operational tasks for project teams. Prepares status reports and maintains project tracking systems to support timely communication and workflow management. Coordinates project schedules, resource requests, and documentation to ensure compliance with organizational standards and project requirements. Assists with budget tracking, invoice processing, and procurement activities related to project operations. Maintains project files, records, and reporting tools to support accurate project monitoring and audit readiness. Communicates with project stakeholders to provide updates, resolve administrative issues, and facilitate project coordination activities. May require a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.

5. What industry pays the highest salary for Project Administrator I?

The Aerospace & Defense industry offers the highest average compensation for Project Administrator I roles, with salaries approximately 30% above the market median.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

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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