US Geological Survey (USGS) scientists are key contributors to the United States’ scientific research in areas such as geology, hydrology, biology, and environmental science. They provide critical data and insights for natural resource management, hazard assessment, and environmental policy.
The 2025 USGS scientist salary structure reflects a combination of experience, grade level, location, and specialization, along with benefits and allowances.
This guide offers a complete overview of USGS scientist salaries by experience and state, including career progression, benefits, and FAQs.
USGS Scientist Salary Overview (2025)
USGS salaries depend on several factors:
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Grade and experience level (GS levels or equivalent federal classification)
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Scientific discipline (geology, biology, hydrology, mapping, etc.)
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Location and cost-of-living adjustments
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Special skills and certifications
Summary Table: USGS Scientist Monthly Salary (2025)
| Experience Level | Base Monthly Salary (USD) | Estimated Total Monthly Pay with Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–3 yrs) | $4,800 – $5,800 | $5,200 – $6,200 |
| Early Career (4–7 yrs) | $5,800 – $7,200 | $6,200 – $7,700 |
| Mid-Career (8–15 yrs) | $7,200 – $9,500 | $7,800 – $10,200 |
| Senior Scientist (16–25 yrs) | $9,500 – $12,000 | $10,200 – $13,000 |
| Principal / Lead Scientist | $12,000 – $16,500 | $13,000 – $18,000 |
Figures are estimates based on 2025 USGS pay scales and location adjustments.
How USGS Scientist Salary Structure Works
1. Federal Grade Levels and Experience
USGS scientists are usually classified under the General Schedule (GS) system:
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GS-7 / GS-9: Entry-level scientific positions
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GS-11 / GS-12: Early career scientists
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GS-13 / GS-14: Mid-career scientists and project leads
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GS-15 / Senior Executive Service (SES): Senior scientists, principal investigators
2. Role and Department
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Geology / Hydrology: Fieldwork and lab analysis, usually with mid-to-high pay for experienced staff
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Biology / Ecology: Research and environmental monitoring
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Geospatial / Mapping: GIS specialists and data analysts
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Administrative / Technical Support: Supporting scientific research
3. Location-Based Adjustments
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High-cost states (California, New York, Washington D.C.) provide additional locality pay
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Rural or lower-cost areas have standard federal base pay
4. Performance and Step Increases
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Salaries include annual step increases for performance and years of service
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Promotions to higher GS levels or specialized positions significantly increase pay
USGS Scientist Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level (0–3 Years)
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Monthly Pay: $4,800 – $5,800
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Roles: Junior field scientist, lab technician, GIS assistant
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Career Path: Training and skill development leading to GS-11 / GS-12
Early Career (4–7 Years)
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Monthly Pay: $5,800 – $7,200
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Roles: Field project lead, assistant researcher, data analyst
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Opportunities: Developing specialization in geology, hydrology, or ecology
Mid-Career (8–15 Years)
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Monthly Pay: $7,200 – $9,500
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Roles: Senior researcher, project manager, technical supervisor
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Benefits: Increased retirement contributions, annual performance bonuses
Senior Scientist (16–25 Years)
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Monthly Pay: $9,500 – $12,000
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Roles: Lead scientist, research supervisor, regional project coordinator
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Responsibilities: Oversight of scientific teams and project budgets
Principal / Lead Scientist
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Monthly Pay: $12,000 – $16,500
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Roles: National project leader, principal investigator, policy advisor
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Perks: Executive allowances, travel support, long-term incentives
USGS Scientist Salary by State (2025)
| State | Average Monthly Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | $6,500 – $16,500 | High cost-of-living adjustment |
| New York | $6,200 – $15,800 | GIS and geology roles pay higher |
| Washington D.C. | $6,000 – $16,000 | Policy and federal research projects |
| Texas | $5,500 – $13,500 | Lower cost-of-living adjustments |
| Colorado | $5,800 – $14,500 | Fieldwork-intensive positions |
| Alaska | $5,700 – $14,000 | Includes remote and hazard pay for fieldwork |
Benefits and Allowances for USGS Scientists (2025)
1. Health and Retirement Benefits
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Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
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Retirement Plans: Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS), Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
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Life Insurance: Optional supplemental coverage
2. Paid Leave
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Annual Leave: 13–26 days depending on tenure
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Sick Leave: 13 days per year
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Holidays: 11 federal holidays
3. Additional Allowances
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Relocation Allowances: For certain field positions
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Hazard Pay: For dangerous or remote fieldwork
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Cost-of-Living Adjustments: High-cost locations
Career Progression for USGS Scientists
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Entry to Early Career: Focus on training, technical skill acquisition
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Early to Mid-Career: Manage projects, lead small teams
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Mid-Career to Senior Scientist: Lead multiple projects, oversee budget, mentorship
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Principal / Lead Scientist: National-level project oversight, policy influence, strategic planning
Comparison with Other Scientific Roles
| Role | Average Monthly Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USGS Scientist | $4,800 – $16,500 | Federal positions with benefits |
| Environmental Protection Agency | $5,000 – $15,000 | Similar federal pay scale |
| Private Geoscience Consultant | $6,000 – $18,000 | Higher private sector salaries, less job security |
| University Research Scientist | $4,500 – $12,500 | Often dependent on grants and tenure |
Factors Affecting USGS Scientist Salary
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Grade / Federal Level (GS Level)
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Years of Experience
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Location and Cost-of-Living
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Specialization / Department
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Performance and Annual Steps
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Hazard and Remote Work Allowances
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Promotions and Leadership Roles
FAQs — USGS Scientist Salary (2025)
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What is the starting salary for a USGS scientist?
Entry-level scientists earn $4,800 – $5,800 per month. -
Do salaries vary by state?
Yes, states like California and New York have higher pay due to cost-of-living adjustments. -
Are hazard pay or field allowances included?
Yes, certain field assignments offer hazard pay and remote work allowances. -
Do USGS scientists receive health insurance?
Yes, full coverage including medical, dental, and vision. -
Is retirement provided?
Yes, through FERS and TSP contributions. -
How does experience affect pay?
Each year of experience can increase pay through step increments and promotions. -
Are relocation allowances available?
Yes, especially for field-based roles in remote locations. -
Can scientists move from entry-level to lead scientist quickly?
Promotions depend on performance, years of service, and departmental needs. -
Do USGS scientists receive paid leave?
Yes, including annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays. -
Is overtime paid?
Eligible positions may receive overtime based on federal regulations.
Conclusion
In 2025, USGS scientists benefit from competitive federal salaries, comprehensive benefits, and clear career paths.
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Entry-level roles provide solid foundations for scientific careers.
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Mid-career scientists gain responsibility and higher pay.
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Senior and lead scientists manage projects, budgets, and influence national research policy.
A career at USGS offers stability, professional growth, and the opportunity to contribute to critical national science initiatives.