Geoscientist Salaries, by Years of Experience

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The average salaries for geoscientists in 2005 varied by years of experience. For geoscientists employed for 0-2 years, the average salary was $74,000, a 9.7% increase over 2004’s average. Geoscientists employed for 20-24 years earned an average of $139,000, which was more than a 23% increase over 2004 salaries. After 25 years of employment, average salaries dip slightly, to $138,100.

Salaries of employed, salaried geoscientists by years of experience, 2005. Source: CPST 2007, Salaries of Scientists, Engineers, and Technicians: A summary of Salary Surveys (data derived from MLA Resources, Inc., Geological Salary Surveys, 2004 and 2005.)

As expected, the greater the education, then generally the higher the compensation. However, given the premium on experience and small population of mid-career geoscientists in the US, even Bachelors’ degree recipients can out-earn Ph.D. and Masters degreed scientists. Geoscientists with their highest degree as the Bachelors earned an average of $135,000 with 10-14 years of experience, compared to only $103,000 for doctoral geoscientists with the same experience.

Average annual salary by years of experience, 2005. Source: CPST 2007, Salaries of Scientists, Engineers, and Technicians: A summary of Salary Surveys (data derived from MLA Resources, Inc., Geological Salary Surveys, 2004 and 2005.)