As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Lab Chemist II in District of Columbia is $88,389 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $42.
However, a Lab Chemist II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Lab Chemist 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 and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Lab Chemist 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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Chemist I... Level Lab Chemist II | $70,781 |
| Lab Chemi... Level Lab Chemist II | $87,778 |
| Chemist I... Level Lab Chemist II | $106,378 |
| Chemist I... Level Lab Chemist II | $139,505 |
| Chemist V... Level Lab Chemist II | $162,909 |
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 Lab Chemist IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Lab Chemist II roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 120% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Software & Networking and Pharmaceuticals sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 60% above the average. In contrast, Lab Chemist positions in Transportation or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Lab Chemist II as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software & Networking | $141,422 | $68.0 | 60% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $123,744 | $59.0 | 40% |
| Financial Services | $114,905 | $55.0 | 30% |
| Business Services | $110,486 | $53.0 | 25% |
| MFG Nondurable | $106,067 | $51.0 | 20% |
Understanding how a Lab Chemist 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 August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Lab Chemist II job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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