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How much does a Scientist make?

The average salary for a Scientist is $99,324 per year in the US.

Scientists play a key role in many industries, from healthcare to technology. Their work helps us understand the world and make new discoveries. The salary for scientists can vary based on their field and experience.

According to recent data, the average yearly salary for scientists is around $99,324. Here is a closer look at the salary distribution across different experience levels:

  • 10th percentile: $40,400
  • 25th percentile: $55,295
  • 50th percentile: $99,982
  • 75th percentile: $144,668
  • 90th percentile: $174,459

Experience and specialization greatly affect earning potential. As scientists gain more experience and expertise, they can earn more. Additionally, certain fields like technology and pharmaceuticals tend to offer higher salaries.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Scientist?

Job seekers aiming to become scientists can look into cities with high average salaries. San Jose, CA, leads with an average salary of $152,615, followed closely by San Francisco, CA, with $145,783. Other promising cities include Huntsville, AL, Atlanta, GA, and Dayton, OH, all offering competitive salaries over $120,000. These cities provide excellent opportunities for scientists to thrive both professionally and financially.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Scientist jobs, highlighting San Jose, CA with the highest at $152,615 and Santa Maria, CA with the lowest at $116,749.
  1. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $152,615
    In San Jose, the tech scene thrives, offering scientists many opportunities. Companies like Google and Intel drive innovation. Researchers here often work on cutting-edge projects.
    Find Scientist jobs in San Jose, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $145,783
    San Francisco's dynamic atmosphere makes it ideal for scientific work. Biotechnology firms and tech giants provide a mix of challenges. Scientists enjoy a vibrant community and networking events.
    Find Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Huntsville, AL
    Average Salary: $129,698
    Huntsville is known for its aerospace and defense industries. Scientists here often collaborate on major projects. NASA and other federal agencies offer many job openings.
    Find Scientist jobs in Huntsville, AL


  4. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $123,483
    Atlanta's diverse job market provides many options for scientists. Companies like Coca-Cola and Emory University offer research opportunities. The city also supports a growing tech scene.
    Find Scientist jobs in Atlanta, GA


  5. Dayton, OH
    Average Salary: $122,275
    Dayton has a strong focus on aerospace and engineering. Scientists can work with major firms like Boeing. The city offers a supportive environment for career growth.
    Find Scientist jobs in Dayton, OH


  6. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $120,875
    Buffalo's growing tech sector attracts many scientists. Companies like General Electric and Kodak provide research opportunities. The city also boasts a lower cost of living.
    Find Scientist jobs in Buffalo, NY


  7. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $120,160
    Portland offers a unique blend of tech and natural research opportunities. Companies like Nike and tech startups provide diverse roles. Scientists benefit from a strong emphasis on work-life balance.
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  8. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $118,441
    Riverside’s universities and research centers offer many scientific jobs. The Inland Empire provides a mix of tech and healthcare opportunities. It’s a growing area with promising prospects.
    Find Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA


  9. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $118,409
    As the nation’s capital, Washington, DC, offers many scientific roles. Government agencies and research institutions provide varied opportunities. The area also supports a vibrant professional community.
    Find Scientist jobs in Washington, DC


  10. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $116,749
    Santa Maria provides a quieter environment with many opportunities in agriculture and research. Local companies and universities offer roles in biotech and food science. It’s a great place for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
    Find Scientist jobs in Santa Maria, CA

What are the best companies a Scientist can work for?

Apple stands out as a top employer for scientists, offering an average salary of $214,426. This tech giant leads the industry in innovation, making it an attractive choice for those seeking both financial rewards and career advancement. L3Harris also provides excellent compensation, averaging $208,338, and supports significant research and development initiatives. Another notable company, Amazon.com, pays scientists an average of $200,146. The e-commerce giant continuously invests in cutting-edge technology and data analysis, offering scientists dynamic and impactful work environments. Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and Merck follow closely, both offering substantial average salaries and rich opportunities for professional growth.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Scientist jobs, highlighting Apple with the highest at $214,426 and Takeda Pharmaceuticals with the lowest at $143,806.
  1. Apple
    Average Salary: $214,426
    Apple offers exciting opportunities for scientists in many areas, including hardware, software, and environmental science. Apple operates globally, with major offices in Cupertino, California; Austin, Texas; and campuses worldwide.


  2. L3Harris
    Average Salary: $208,338
    L3Harris provides a range of opportunities for scientists in aerospace, defense, and technology. The company has a significant presence in Melbourne, Florida; Orlando, Florida; and other locations in the United States and internationally.


  3. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $200,146
    Amazon offers diverse roles for scientists, from research and development to data science. The company operates in many cities, including Seattle, Washington; Austin, Texas; and many other locations worldwide.


  4. Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
    Average Salary: $188,194
    This organization offers exciting opportunities for scientists in national security and space exploration. The company is based in Laurel, Maryland, and has other locations in the United States and abroad.


  5. Merck
    Average Salary: $164,538
    Merck provides various roles for scientists in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Merck operates globally, with headquarters in Kenilworth, New Jersey, and many other sites worldwide.


  6. Uber
    Average Salary: $162,811
    Uber offers exciting opportunities for scientists in autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, and more. The company operates in many cities worldwide, with major offices in San Francisco, California, and other locations.


  7. Genentech
    Average Salary: $161,285
    Genentech provides opportunities for scientists in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The company is part of Roche and has a major presence in South San Francisco, California, with other locations in the United States and abroad.


  8. Gilead Sciences
    Average Salary: $154,283
    Gilead Sciences offers opportunities for scientists in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The company is headquartered in Foster City, California, and has other locations in the United States and internationally.


  9. Los Alamos National Laboratory
    Average Salary: $145,825
    This organization offers opportunities for scientists in national security, energy, and technology. The lab is located in Los Alamos, New Mexico, with other sites in the United States.


  10. Takeda Pharmaceuticals
    Average Salary: $143,806
    Takeda Pharmaceuticals offers roles for scientists in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. The company operates in many locations, with headquarters in Osaka, Japan, and major offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and other sites worldwide.

How to earn more as a Scientist?

A career in science opens many doors for growth and advancement. Scientists can explore various fields like biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. To earn more as a scientist, consider these key factors. Each one can help build a successful career and increase earnings.

Firstly, gaining specialized skills and certifications can lead to higher-paying jobs. Many employers value candidates who have specific expertise. Advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D., can also lead to better-paying positions. Working on projects that involve cutting-edge technology or research also enhances value. Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Finally, continuous learning and professional development can open doors to higher earnings.

Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a scientist:

  • Specialized Skills and Certifications: Develop skills in high-demand areas such as data analysis, programming, or lab techniques. Certifications can boost your resume.
  • Advanced Degrees: Pursue a master’s or Ph.D. to qualify for higher-level positions.
  • Engage in Cutting-Edge Research: Work on projects that use the latest technology or research methodologies.
  • Networking: Connect with other professionals to discover job opportunities and collaborations.
  • Continuous Learning: Attend workshops, conferences, and courses to stay updated in your field.

Currently 843 Scientist job openings, nationwide.

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Scientist
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