As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Laboratory Chemist in District of Columbia is $105,343 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $51.
However, a Laboratory Chemist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Laboratory Chemist'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 Laboratory Chemist'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 Laboratory Chemist | $70,595 |
| Chemist I... Level Laboratory Chemist | $87,537 |
| Laborator... Level Laboratory Chemist | $106,092 |
| Chemist I... Level Laboratory Chemist | $139,123 |
| Chemist V... Level Laboratory Chemist | $162,479 |
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 Laboratory Chemists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Laboratory Chemist roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 42% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Energy & Utilities sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Laboratory Chemist positions in Transportation or MFG Nondurable typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Laboratory Chemist as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $126,411 | $61.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $121,144 | $58.0 | 15% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $117,984 | $57.0 | 12% |
| MFG Durable | $115,877 | $56.0 | 10% |
| Chemicals | $113,770 | $55.0 | 8% |
Understanding how a Laboratory Chemist'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 July 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Laboratory Chemist job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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