As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Phd Scientist in District of Columbia is $108,509 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $52.
However, a Phd Scientist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Phd Scientist'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 Phd Scientist'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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Vendor Qu... Level Phd Scientist | $88,316 |
| Phd Scien... Level Phd Scientist | $110,001 |
| Vendor Qu... Level Phd Scientist | $116,373 |
| Vendor Qu... Level Phd Scientist | $138,854 |
| Vendor Qu... Level Phd Scientist | $164,511 |
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 Phd Scientists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Phd Scientist roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 100% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Software & Networking and Aerospace & Defense sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 50% above the average. In contrast, Phd Scientist positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Phd Scientist as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software & Networking | $162,764 | $78.0 | 50% |
Understanding how a Phd Scientist'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, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Phd Scientist job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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