As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Research Software Engineer in District of Columbia is $123,715 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $59.
However, a Research Software Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Research Software Engineer'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 Research Software Engineer'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 |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Research Software Engineer | $118,127 |
| Intermediate Level Research Software Engineer | $119,058 |
| Senior Level Research Software Engineer | $119,990 |
| Specialist Level Research Software Engineer | $123,343 |
| Expert Level Research Software Engineer | $126,936 |
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 Research Software Engineers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Research Software Engineer'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, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Research Software Engineer job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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