How much does a Principal Chemist make in the United States?
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The average Principal Chemist salary in the United States is $113,554 as of September 2026. The range for our most popular Principal Chemist positions (listed below) typically falls between $103,311 and $123,797. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Principal Chemist's Annual Base Salary
| $0K $40K $80K $120K $160K | |
| Chemist | |
| Principal | |
| Chemist I | |
| Chemist II | |
| Chemist III | |
| Chemist IV | |
| Chemist V | |
| Entry Chemist | |
| Intermediate Chemist | |
| Senior Chemist |
Principal Chemist's Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemist | $99,825 | $47.99 | United States | September 2026 |
| Principal | $107,090 | $51.49 | United States | September 2026 |
| Chemist I | $65,304 | $31.40 | United States | September 2026 |
| Chemist II | $80,996 | $38.94 | United States | September 2026 |
| Chemist III | $98,152 | $47.19 | United States | September 2026 |
| Chemist IV | $128,725 | $61.89 | United States | September 2026 |
| Chemist V | $150,304 | $72.26 | United States | September 2026 |
| Entry Chemist | $65,400 | $31.44 | United States | September 2026 |
| Intermediate Chemist | $81,000 | $38.94 | United States | September 2026 |
| Senior Chemist | $98,200 | $47.21 | United States | September 2026 |
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Evaluates the chemical and physical properties of various organic and inorganic substances. Utilizes established methods and procedures and laboratory equipment to perform analytical testing of substances. Prepares compounds, reagents and solutions. Develop and write technical reports of testing results. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. View Chemist I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Analytical Chemist I, Entry ChemistCategories : Pharmaceuticals, Aerospace and Defense, Biotechnology, Entry Level, Science and Research
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Evaluates the chemical and physical properties of various organic and inorganic substances. Utilizes established methods and procedures and laboratory equipment to perform analytical testing of substances. Prepares compounds, reagents and solutions. Develop and write technical reports of testing results. Requires a master's degree in area of specialty. Demonstrates expertise in a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Typically requires 10+ years of related experience. Works on advanced, complex technical projects or business issues requiring state of the art technical or industry knowledge. Works autonomously. Goals are generally communicated in "solution" or project goal terms. May provide a leadership role for the work group through knowledge in the area of specialization. View Chemist V SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Analytical Chemist V, Expert Chemist
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Evaluates the chemical and physical properties of various organic and inorganic substances. Utilizes established methods and procedures and laboratory equipment to perform analytical testing of substances. Prepares compounds, reagents and solutions. Develop and write technical reports of testing results. Requires a master's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Typically requires 7+ years of related experience. A specialist on complex technical and business matters. Work is highly independent. May assume a team lead role for the work group. View Chemist IV SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Analytical Chemist IV, Specialist Chemist