Career Progression: Entry-Level vs Senior Salaries in District of Columbia (2024)

How much more do senior professionals earn compared to entry-level in District of Columbia? Explore salary growth potential for 457+ occupations, based on 2024 BLS percentile data.

457
Occupations Tracked
114%
Avg Career Growth
2024
BLS Data Year

Top 10: Highest Career Growth Potential in District of Columbia

These occupations show the largest salary gap between entry-level (P10) and senior (P90) in District of Columbia — the biggest payoff for career advancement.

All 457 Occupations by Career Growth in District of Columbia

Complete list sorted by career salary growth premium (highest to lowest) for District of Columbia. Click any job to see the full entry-level vs senior breakdown with percentile data.

# Occupation Entry (P10) Median Senior (P90) Growth
1 Air Traffic Controllers $34,130 $34,130 $198,390 +481%
2 Veterinarians $47,600 $130,820 $219,410 +361%
3 Helpers, Construction Trades, All Other $39,960 $60,320 $175,240 +339%
4 Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other $50,900 $105,580 $221,920 +336%
5 Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents $49,910 $60,400 $215,920 +333%
6 Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels $37,560 $65,300 $151,840 +304%
7 Web and Digital Interface Designers $35,080 $104,410 $141,290 +303%
8 Coaches and Scouts $34,360 $76,970 $127,480 +271%
9 Production Workers, All Other $33,490 $68,810 $122,370 +265%
10 Biological Scientists, All Other $47,550 $75,170 $171,720 +261%
11 Communications Teachers, Postsecondary $48,060 $75,380 $171,880 +258%
12 Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other $40,850 $54,700 $144,000 +253%
13 Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products $34,710 $64,630 $122,470 +253%
14 Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary $49,890 $95,730 $174,130 +249%
15 Music Directors and Composers $35,990 $71,680 $124,810 +247%
16 Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary $60,240 $98,240 $207,370 +244%
17 Advertising and Promotions Managers $61,010 $108,560 $208,090 +241%
18 Survey Researchers $64,770 $86,470 $220,970 +241%
19 Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians $48,460 $99,780 $165,140 +241%
20 Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary $62,610 $123,360 $212,600 +240%
21 Public Relations Specialists $59,510 $96,510 $201,470 +239%
22 Data Scientists $61,280 $122,010 $206,320 +237%
23 News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists $51,480 $86,130 $173,250 +237%
24 Personal Financial Advisors $62,660 $97,860 $210,150 +235%
25 Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary $50,280 $63,560 $168,020 +234%
26 Bartenders $33,490 $47,210 $110,360 +230%
27 Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary $63,950 $100,310 $205,280 +221%
28 Architecture Teachers, Postsecondary $66,980 $92,140 $213,480 +219%
29 Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers $51,850 $77,710 $164,670 +218%
30 Law Teachers, Postsecondary $61,730 $117,210 $196,530 +218%
31 Special Education Teachers, All Other $35,510 $76,920 $112,560 +217%
32 Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary $63,970 $101,090 $201,060 +214%
33 Teachers and Instructors, All Other $49,890 $81,200 $156,850 +214%
34 Advertising Sales Agents $39,770 $63,200 $124,530 +213%
35 Clergy $37,020 $60,030 $114,910 +210%
36 Photographers $45,080 $77,730 $139,610 +210%
37 Psychologists, All Other $52,120 $105,520 $159,930 +207%
38 Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary $48,650 $87,410 $149,330 +207%
39 Audio and Video Technicians $38,500 $65,040 $117,770 +206%
40 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $57,360 $83,090 $175,070 +205%
41 Sales Representatives of Services, Except Advertising, Insurance, Financial Services, and Travel $45,490 $74,270 $138,050 +203%
42 Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers $37,410 $113,410 $113,480 +203%
43 Atmospheric and Space Scientists $60,780 $97,180 $183,500 +202%
44 Legal Support Workers, All Other $53,100 $79,710 $159,430 +200%
45 Writers and Authors $52,970 $94,290 $158,830 +200%
46 Skincare Specialists $44,280 $46,260 $132,190 +199%
47 Producers and Directors $52,900 $97,730 $157,440 +198%
48 Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists $52,210 $79,630 $154,420 +196%
49 Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products $57,320 $72,740 $169,200 +195%
50 Health Education Specialists $53,110 $102,420 $155,150 +192%
51 Museum Technicians and Conservators $35,110 $64,940 $102,660 +192%
52 Operations Research Analysts $62,350 $109,990 $181,650 +191%
53 Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film $39,030 $84,690 $113,510 +191%
54 Business Operations Specialists, All Other $60,930 $103,590 $176,800 +190%
55 Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary $53,220 $87,090 $154,040 +189%
56 Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education $38,910 $49,030 $112,330 +189%
57 Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Workers, All Other $48,150 $103,490 $139,040 +189%
58 Transportation Inspectors $59,620 $97,130 $172,060 +189%
59 Social Science Research Assistants $41,910 $65,460 $120,740 +188%
60 Physics Teachers, Postsecondary $61,780 $80,910 $177,610 +187%
61 Instructional Coordinators $55,260 $100,900 $158,830 +187%
62 Media and Communication Workers, All Other $42,380 $70,010 $121,340 +186%
63 Sales Managers $77,940 $138,680 $220,520 +183%
64 Directors, Religious Activities and Education $46,380 $77,480 $131,220 +183%
65 Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary $57,030 $93,290 $161,250 +183%
66 Therapists, All Other $43,130 $83,200 $122,120 +183%
67 Economics Teachers, Postsecondary $77,520 $128,770 $216,690 +180%
68 Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary $47,550 $80,600 $132,720 +179%
69 Broadcast Technicians $45,750 $79,760 $127,650 +179%
70 Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists $67,610 $114,260 $187,560 +177%
71 Protective Service Workers, All Other $36,900 $77,940 $102,340 +177%
72 Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health $62,640 $115,730 $172,470 +175%
73 Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors $33,940 $43,450 $93,320 +175%
74 Printing Press Operators $48,590 $110,950 $133,560 +175%
75 Computer Network Support Specialists $47,080 $88,640 $129,170 +174%
76 Dietitians and Nutritionists $38,820 $81,220 $105,830 +173%
77 First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers $49,080 $90,270 $134,010 +173%
78 Financial Specialists, All Other $70,910 $119,480 $193,190 +172%
79 Administrative Services Managers $69,280 $119,480 $187,820 +171%
80 Industrial Production Managers $73,380 $128,430 $198,770 +171%
81 Project Management Specialists $61,980 $101,920 $167,690 +171%
82 First-Line Supervisors of Entertainment and Recreation Workers, Except Gambling Services $35,000 $49,180 $95,000 +171%
83 History Teachers, Postsecondary $52,790 $82,570 $142,580 +170%
84 Surgical Technologists $36,030 $68,520 $97,380 +170%
85 Financial and Investment Analysts $65,750 $102,890 $176,870 +169%
86 Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary $61,150 $98,210 $163,640 +168%
87 Editors $60,830 $95,950 $162,950 +168%
88 Actuaries $73,480 $145,600 $196,160 +167%
89 Logisticians $64,940 $105,330 $172,060 +165%
90 Religious Workers, All Other $33,490 $37,910 $88,380 +164%
91 Business Teachers, Postsecondary $65,830 $131,770 $174,090 +164%
92 Structural Iron and Steel Workers $53,930 $62,330 $142,490 +164%
93 Education Administrators, All Other $65,460 $126,940 $172,060 +163%
94 Fundraisers $47,800 $78,150 $125,550 +163%
95 Accountants and Auditors $65,500 $101,940 $171,720 +162%
96 Athletic Trainers $51,850 $69,940 $135,620 +162%
97 First-Line Supervisors of Protective Service Workers, All Other $39,130 $50,060 $102,700 +162%
98 Human Resources Specialists $60,840 $100,980 $158,830 +161%
99 Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary $65,800 $102,180 $171,470 +161%
100 Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary $55,950 $99,480 $144,840 +159%
101 English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary $52,700 $81,160 $136,680 +159%
102 Physician Assistants $68,460 $124,350 $177,060 +159%
103 Postsecondary Teachers, All Other $42,850 $66,770 $110,710 +158%
104 Waiters and Waitresses $33,490 $37,390 $86,460 +158%
105 Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors $41,830 $70,590 $107,710 +157%
106 Pharmacists $67,500 $140,320 $173,280 +157%
107 Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers $33,940 $50,930 $87,220 +157%
108 Sales and Related Workers, All Other $37,820 $37,820 $96,990 +156%
109 Financial Risk Specialists $68,750 $110,550 $174,460 +154%
110 Training and Development Specialists $52,240 $87,270 $132,070 +153%
111 Buyers and Purchasing Agents $64,940 $112,960 $163,490 +152%
112 Education Teachers, Postsecondary $47,400 $79,500 $118,350 +150%
113 Media and Communication Equipment Workers, All Other $60,170 $119,480 $150,380 +150%
114 Chefs and Head Cooks $45,930 $69,410 $114,730 +150%
115 First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers $53,100 $82,990 $132,730 +150%
116 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School $47,430 $82,040 $118,020 +149%
117 Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance $37,770 $72,530 $94,130 +149%
118 Tutors $34,440 $54,120 $85,460 +148%
119 Web Developers $71,340 $112,490 $176,340 +147%
120 Automotive Body and Related Repairers $37,700 $59,540 $93,160 +147%
121 Architects, Except Landscape and Naval $66,180 $102,740 $162,970 +146%
122 Educational Instruction and Library Workers, All Other $43,300 $62,500 $106,420 +146%
123 Food Service Managers $49,300 $78,220 $120,570 +145%
124 Art Directors $73,870 $175,440 $180,800 +145%
125 Construction Managers $86,930 $126,940 $211,880 +144%
126 Natural Sciences Managers $79,200 $154,420 $193,130 +144%
127 Facilities Managers $78,670 $119,020 $191,510 +143%
128 Self-Enrichment Teachers $38,970 $61,040 $94,860 +143%
129 Electricians $49,670 $79,520 $120,270 +142%
130 Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary $52,920 $81,710 $126,790 +140%
131 Office and Administrative Support Workers, All Other $33,490 $38,310 $80,100 +139%
132 Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other $43,410 $98,880 $103,210 +138%
133 Biochemists and Biophysicists $55,240 $66,770 $130,680 +137%
134 Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other $67,120 $116,170 $158,830 +137%
135 Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers $34,500 $60,330 $81,690 +137%
136 Life Scientists, All Other $94,460 $160,140 $222,890 +136%
137 Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other $47,270 $68,540 $111,750 +136%
138 Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners $49,930 $69,990 $117,460 +135%
139 Aerospace Engineers $83,100 $166,310 $195,280 +135%
140 Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors $40,930 $64,270 $96,040 +135%
141 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers $46,110 $84,560 $108,180 +135%
142 Set and Exhibit Designers $43,410 $59,730 $102,150 +135%
143 Computer Network Architects $81,140 $133,890 $190,020 +134%
144 Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks $44,720 $69,730 $104,740 +134%
145 Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants $50,030 $101,170 $116,940 +134%
146 Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists $58,500 $88,300 $136,280 +133%
147 Landscape Architects $60,960 $89,070 $141,880 +133%
148 Mechanical Engineers $78,640 $124,160 $183,500 +133%
149 Lighting Technicians $45,460 $67,290 $105,980 +133%
150 Database Administrators $67,670 $120,220 $156,460 +131%
151 First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers $42,640 $51,180 $98,650 +131%
152 Roofers $40,670 $57,400 $93,850 +131%
153 Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers $84,910 $151,680 $195,480 +130%
154 Computer Occupations, All Other $76,460 $131,980 $175,620 +130%
155 Interpreters and Translators $53,380 $77,250 $122,610 +130%
156 Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists $33,490 $50,000 $77,010 +130%
157 First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers $36,600 $53,800 $84,330 +130%
158 Lodging Managers $60,670 $75,350 $138,770 +129%
159 Conservation Scientists $66,080 $86,440 $151,650 +129%
160 Brokerage Clerks $35,390 $58,870 $80,910 +129%
161 Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand $36,360 $44,410 $83,190 +129%
162 Interior Designers $62,060 $81,200 $141,420 +128%
163 Sound Engineering Technicians $51,030 $97,740 $116,560 +128%
164 Medical Records Specialists $47,570 $61,320 $108,310 +128%
165 Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators $52,660 $65,500 $119,480 +127%
166 Civil Engineers $67,490 $98,480 $153,230 +127%
167 Physicists $80,950 $138,420 $183,500 +127%
168 Compliance Officers $64,420 $100,350 $145,600 +126%
169 Costume Attendants $43,460 $82,580 $98,140 +126%
170 Customer Service Representatives $35,960 $50,820 $81,360 +126%
171 Helpers--Carpenters $40,760 $55,790 $92,280 +126%
172 Transportation Workers, All Other $37,000 $45,220 $83,680 +126%
173 Insurance Underwriters $77,750 $104,410 $174,270 +124%
174 Healthcare Support Workers, All Other $38,130 $56,640 $85,310 +124%
175 Electrical Engineers $80,080 $129,670 $178,590 +123%
176 Social Workers, All Other $55,540 $99,110 $123,740 +123%
177 Information Security Analysts $81,880 $132,470 $181,430 +122%
178 Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance $74,010 $107,530 $164,440 +122%
179 Fundraising Managers $98,200 $143,860 $217,450 +121%
180 Riggers $53,670 $72,200 $118,610 +121%
181 Network and Computer Systems Administrators $74,890 $110,140 $164,990 +120%
182 Security Guards $34,260 $51,110 $75,270 +120%
183 Statisticians $76,470 $128,640 $167,650 +119%
184 Computer Hardware Engineers $83,930 $138,670 $183,500 +119%
185 Rehabilitation Counselors $43,560 $61,700 $95,480 +119%
186 Paralegals and Legal Assistants $58,080 $95,480 $126,940 +119%
187 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $50,110 $82,120 $109,570 +119%
188 Film and Video Editors $54,650 $80,800 $119,490 +119%
189 Billing and Posting Clerks $46,220 $69,270 $101,050 +119%
190 Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers $37,630 $64,880 $82,480 +119%
191 Database Architects $101,410 $164,720 $221,230 +118%
192 Child, Family, and School Social Workers $50,640 $73,560 $110,570 +118%
193 Office Clerks, General $36,710 $50,630 $79,950 +118%
194 First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors $45,740 $72,070 $99,510 +118%
195 Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary $81,470 $130,770 $176,830 +117%
196 Urban and Regional Planners $78,580 $123,200 $170,800 +117%
197 Social and Human Service Assistants $37,890 $55,750 $82,120 +117%
198 Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians $47,790 $62,510 $103,580 +117%
199 Library Assistants, Clerical $33,490 $49,060 $72,700 +117%
200 Special Effects Artists and Animators $48,050 $72,500 $103,610 +116%
201 Bill and Account Collectors $40,030 $60,170 $86,440 +116%
202 First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives $85,190 $123,440 $183,500 +115%
203 Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan $45,670 $58,940 $98,110 +115%
204 Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers $48,980 $75,770 $105,320 +115%
205 Maintenance and Repair Workers, General $37,340 $51,690 $80,130 +115%
206 Soil and Plant Scientists $68,030 $96,910 $145,600 +114%
207 Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary $51,390 $83,240 $109,740 +114%
208 Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators $50,800 $66,240 $108,730 +114%
209 Proofreaders and Copy Markers $56,760 $70,370 $120,320 +112%
210 Sheet Metal Workers $48,160 $73,210 $102,100 +112%
211 Management Analysts $78,580 $119,480 $165,980 +111%
212 Maintenance Workers, Machinery $39,160 $48,360 $82,590 +111%
213 Procurement Clerks $42,870 $60,940 $89,550 +109%
214 Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks $45,910 $59,130 $95,920 +109%
215 Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers $39,770 $57,930 $82,990 +109%
216 Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors $84,290 $126,820 $174,990 +108%
217 Curators $60,780 $81,200 $126,630 +108%
218 Software Developers $95,670 $140,360 $198,070 +107%
219 First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers $46,650 $66,600 $96,400 +107%
220 Archivists $59,580 $93,650 $122,450 +106%
221 Opticians, Dispensing $35,850 $60,560 $73,770 +106%
222 Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars $55,240 $86,220 $113,620 +106%
223 Physical Therapist Assistants $41,780 $69,650 $85,850 +105%
224 Loan Interviewers and Clerks $57,030 $68,490 $116,720 +105%
225 First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers $61,280 $87,140 $125,560 +105%
226 Social and Community Service Managers $75,680 $98,910 $154,600 +104%
227 Occupational Health and Safety Specialists $71,450 $106,750 $145,600 +104%
228 Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other $38,150 $46,350 $77,790 +104%
229 Budget Analysts $71,690 $115,730 $145,600 +103%
230 Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators $84,820 $109,990 $172,060 +103%
231 Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants $56,770 $82,070 $114,980 +103%
232 Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive $39,270 $54,790 $79,720 +103%
233 Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining $39,640 $54,910 $80,300 +103%
234 Computer Systems Analysts $81,430 $103,960 $164,170 +102%
235 Biological Technicians $38,990 $59,870 $78,810 +102%
236 Medical Equipment Preparers $42,880 $51,860 $86,630 +102%
237 Information and Record Clerks, All Other $42,870 $65,480 $86,530 +102%
238 Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters $52,070 $84,470 $105,000 +102%
239 Credit Analysts $63,590 $81,230 $127,970 +101%
240 Credit Counselors $50,390 $59,520 $101,120 +101%
241 Computer User Support Specialists $54,500 $76,680 $109,620 +101%
242 Industrial Engineers $77,940 $102,210 $156,710 +101%
243 Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers $35,690 $55,240 $71,690 +101%
244 Tour and Travel Guides $36,190 $47,150 $72,800 +101%
245 Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers $67,820 $122,820 $136,650 +101%
246 Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians $62,470 $85,560 $124,650 +100%
247 Occupational Health and Safety Technicians $51,410 $60,040 $102,800 +100%
248 First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers $37,440 $57,520 $74,970 +100%
249 First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers $39,650 $52,710 $79,310 +100%
250 Graphic Designers $61,810 $96,810 $123,200 +99%
251 Dietetic Technicians $33,490 $41,560 $66,540 +99%
252 Orthotists and Prosthetists $40,890 $40,890 $81,200 +99%
253 Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers $62,570 $97,720 $124,470 +99%
254 First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers $64,070 $84,400 $126,810 +98%
255 Computer and Information Research Scientists $96,180 $145,780 $189,490 +97%
256 Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary $85,170 $103,920 $167,400 +97%
257 Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $37,910 $47,170 $74,840 +97%
258 Cost Estimators $66,710 $83,620 $130,690 +96%
259 Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks $43,330 $63,350 $84,810 +96%
260 Crane and Tower Operators $57,990 $84,900 $113,880 +96%
261 Chemists $94,180 $141,880 $183,500 +95%
262 Physical Scientists, All Other $94,180 $154,420 $183,500 +95%
263 Healthcare Diagnosing or Treating Practitioners, All Other $94,180 $141,190 $183,500 +95%
264 Tile and Stone Setters $37,320 $37,320 $72,740 +95%
265 Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers $52,290 $78,750 $101,730 +95%
266 Medical Equipment Repairers $44,480 $57,100 $86,680 +95%
267 Nuclear Engineers $100,670 $174,390 $195,000 +94%
268 Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School $64,880 $108,030 $125,910 +94%
269 Librarians and Media Collections Specialists $62,970 $91,010 $122,450 +94%
270 Recreational Therapists $56,650 $81,440 $109,920 +94%
271 Veterinary Technologists and Technicians $39,240 $49,330 $76,030 +94%
272 Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks $39,870 $49,270 $77,350 +94%
273 Pipelayers $40,510 $55,870 $78,310 +93%
274 Food Scientists and Technologists $63,990 $94,180 $122,730 +92%
275 Paramedics $45,280 $75,400 $86,760 +92%
276 Painters, Construction and Maintenance $38,280 $53,630 $73,670 +92%
277 Compensation and Benefits Managers $108,620 $164,980 $207,720 +91%
278 Property Appraisers and Assessors $72,860 $111,750 $138,130 +90%
279 Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers $84,860 $121,970 $161,600 +90%
280 Foresters $60,080 $60,080 $114,440 +90%
281 Construction and Building Inspectors $64,960 $91,010 $123,220 +90%
282 Architectural and Civil Drafters $63,570 $82,020 $119,850 +89%
283 Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters $33,660 $47,200 $63,730 +89%
284 Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics $44,540 $62,940 $84,200 +89%
285 Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other $52,870 $67,960 $99,530 +88%
286 Technical Writers $70,910 $102,970 $132,970 +88%
287 Private Detectives and Investigators $43,540 $60,690 $81,740 +88%
288 Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare $61,760 $78,000 $115,220 +87%
289 Postal Service Mail Carriers $40,210 $59,000 $75,300 +87%
290 Speech-Language Pathologists $78,900 $112,620 $146,590 +86%
291 Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks $36,110 $56,870 $67,290 +86%
292 Environmental Engineers $78,580 $121,860 $145,600 +85%
293 Healthcare Social Workers $60,450 $83,460 $111,750 +85%
294 Psychiatric Technicians $39,400 $60,530 $72,880 +85%
295 Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping $47,520 $63,380 $87,800 +85%
296 Electronics Engineers, Except Computer $99,590 $145,870 $183,500 +84%
297 Surveyors $54,880 $54,880 $99,650 +82%
298 Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers $60,200 $80,040 $109,490 +82%
299 Registered Nurses $75,340 $105,220 $136,120 +81%
300 Computer Programmers $80,340 $80,470 $144,380 +80%
301 Occupational Therapists $72,010 $97,220 $129,840 +80%
302 Pharmacy Technicians $39,260 $46,520 $70,490 +80%
303 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers $46,740 $61,470 $84,140 +80%
304 Counselors, All Other $56,550 $82,150 $101,110 +79%
305 Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary $45,250 $53,400 $80,850 +79%
306 Commercial and Industrial Designers $79,100 $132,270 $141,430 +79%
307 Residential Advisors $35,530 $41,170 $63,650 +79%
308 Emergency Medical Technicians $40,450 $47,440 $71,860 +78%
309 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers $36,190 $46,320 $64,300 +78%
310 Recreation Workers $34,910 $38,310 $62,170 +78%
311 Engineers, All Other $103,830 $158,830 $183,500 +77%
312 Political Scientists $103,520 $145,600 $183,500 +77%
313 First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers $72,050 $82,390 $127,750 +77%
314 Receptionists and Information Clerks $33,490 $39,960 $59,020 +76%
315 Postal Service Clerks $41,700 $62,550 $73,150 +75%
316 Light Truck Drivers $38,770 $47,550 $67,950 +75%
317 Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors $39,810 $49,210 $69,620 +75%
318 School Psychologists $79,430 $93,200 $138,200 +74%
319 Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door $66,900 $91,240 $116,480 +74%
320 Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators $60,010 $83,470 $104,500 +74%
321 Bus Drivers, School $33,490 $47,660 $58,360 +74%
322 Tellers $33,490 $42,310 $58,030 +73%
323 Public Safety Telecommunicators $36,050 $53,250 $62,240 +73%
324 Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators $41,700 $70,740 $71,910 +72%
325 Bakers $34,320 $36,960 $58,990 +72%
326 Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment $33,490 $38,320 $57,550 +72%
327 Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks $38,890 $47,900 $66,460 +71%
328 Special Education Teachers, Secondary School $64,820 $85,950 $110,140 +70%
329 Tire Repairers and Changers $35,910 $40,560 $60,940 +70%
330 Managers, All Other $124,010 $163,240 $210,000 +69%
331 Community Health Workers $46,820 $66,420 $79,270 +69%
332 Butchers and Meat Cutters $34,340 $47,990 $57,870 +69%
333 Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers $48,000 $55,760 $80,920 +69%
334 Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education $65,660 $85,610 $110,200 +68%
335 Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop $35,360 $36,010 $59,320 +68%
336 Data Entry Keyers $37,650 $47,100 $63,100 +68%
337 Carpenters $50,220 $63,290 $84,470 +68%
338 Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators $43,270 $60,940 $72,530 +68%
339 Mechanical Drafters $73,130 $90,440 $121,920 +67%
340 Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $63,480 $78,660 $106,230 +67%
341 Pharmacy Aides $37,700 $53,400 $62,990 +67%
342 Grounds Maintenance Workers, All Other $40,710 $42,160 $67,910 +67%
343 Shuttle Drivers and Chauffeurs $34,360 $37,040 $57,440 +67%
344 Respiratory Therapists $76,550 $106,480 $127,390 +66%
345 Retail Salespersons $33,970 $37,380 $56,560 +66%
346 Office Machine Operators, Except Computer $36,960 $43,770 $61,200 +66%
347 Construction Laborers $36,860 $47,420 $61,280 +66%
348 Plasterers and Stucco Masons $41,500 $50,890 $68,950 +66%
349 Sewing Machine Operators $33,490 $46,520 $55,700 +66%
350 Occupational Therapy Aides $37,010 $52,770 $61,000 +65%
351 Word Processors and Typists $42,990 $47,420 $70,640 +64%
352 Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers $33,490 $37,800 $55,010 +64%
353 Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education, and English as a Second Language Instructors $60,510 $83,240 $98,700 +63%
354 Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary $35,070 $35,070 $57,210 +63%
355 Nurse Midwives $85,690 $94,240 $139,930 +63%
356 Diagnostic Medical Sonographers $78,650 $92,890 $128,250 +63%
357 First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers $52,190 $74,480 $85,010 +63%
358 Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks $34,630 $38,750 $56,570 +63%
359 Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants $39,500 $47,800 $64,420 +63%
360 Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other $78,580 $103,600 $126,940 +62%
361 Special Education Teachers, Middle School $67,610 $87,730 $109,410 +62%
362 Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers $33,490 $38,890 $54,240 +62%
363 Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers $39,360 $58,140 $63,710 +62%
364 Chemical Technicians $40,160 $47,670 $64,850 +61%
365 Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators $33,930 $41,520 $54,280 +60%
366 Labor Relations Specialists $92,060 $120,100 $145,960 +59%
367 Marine Engineers and Naval Architects $115,730 $164,420 $183,500 +59%
368 Barbers $67,320 $83,920 $106,870 +59%
369 Telephone Operators $34,030 $45,460 $54,060 +59%
370 File Clerks $48,730 $59,080 $77,400 +59%
371 Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers $33,490 $33,490 $53,000 +58%
372 Nurse Practitioners $104,320 $133,280 $164,750 +58%
373 Nuclear Medicine Technologists $82,790 $82,800 $130,690 +58%
374 Medical Assistants $37,360 $48,710 $58,970 +58%
375 Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service $38,400 $55,720 $60,860 +58%
376 Physical Therapists $82,960 $100,850 $130,660 +57%
377 Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers $37,870 $47,890 $59,300 +57%
378 Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service $39,890 $48,710 $62,590 +57%
379 Teaching Assistants, Except Postsecondary $34,710 $41,750 $54,200 +56%
380 Locksmiths and Safe Repairers $54,810 $71,000 $85,650 +56%
381 Architectural and Engineering Managers $136,760 $171,270 $212,100 +55%
382 Counter and Rental Clerks $36,090 $42,890 $56,080 +55%
383 Glaziers $48,230 $73,070 $74,700 +55%
384 Dental Hygienists $81,290 $119,710 $124,890 +54%
385 Occupational Therapy Assistants $51,890 $79,670 $79,670 +54%
386 Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse $33,490 $39,150 $51,420 +54%
387 Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers $50,320 $65,020 $77,670 +54%
388 Emergency Management Directors $119,920 $176,450 $183,500 +53%
389 Baggage Porters and Bellhops $33,720 $37,280 $51,670 +53%
390 Machinists $63,170 $78,210 $96,660 +53%
391 Library Technicians $45,300 $56,660 $69,010 +52%
392 Nursing Assistants $38,490 $46,220 $58,590 +52%
393 Dental Assistants $43,220 $52,880 $65,480 +52%
394 Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria $37,430 $43,200 $56,940 +52%
395 Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs $56,930 $72,860 $86,470 +52%
396 Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners $36,400 $44,090 $54,820 +51%
397 Radiation Therapists $87,320 $105,760 $130,670 +50%
398 Audiologists $85,040 $112,280 $126,880 +49%
399 First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers $46,740 $69,850 $69,850 +49%
400 Radiologic Technologists and Technicians $74,150 $87,110 $109,550 +48%
401 Food Servers, Nonrestaurant $33,490 $37,280 $49,400 +48%
402 Floral Designers $33,970 $39,580 $49,970 +47%
403 Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators $46,250 $58,990 $68,080 +47%
404 Driver/Sales Workers $34,200 $35,630 $50,370 +47%
405 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses $55,320 $67,700 $81,020 +46%
406 Motor Vehicle Operators, All Other $48,070 $64,460 $69,560 +45%
407 Concierges $34,740 $36,110 $50,190 +44%
408 Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants $33,490 $34,260 $48,240 +44%
409 Manicurists and Pedicurists $33,490 $33,490 $47,970 +43%
410 Correspondence Clerks $67,960 $67,960 $97,190 +43%
411 Hazardous Materials Removal Workers $41,010 $48,310 $58,680 +43%
412 Parking Enforcement Workers $48,350 $65,150 $68,540 +42%
413 Animal Caretakers $35,050 $38,250 $49,340 +41%
414 Stockers and Order Fillers $35,040 $38,670 $49,280 +41%
415 Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners $34,420 $37,660 $48,140 +40%
416 Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters $38,610 $38,620 $54,080 +40%
417 Packers and Packagers, Hand $34,670 $37,390 $48,620 +40%
418 Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists $90,800 $92,650 $126,180 +39%
419 Couriers and Messengers $36,490 $44,710 $50,740 +39%
420 Genetic Counselors $84,140 $84,140 $115,020 +37%
421 Travel Agents $52,250 $64,620 $71,510 +37%
422 Helpers--Electricians $38,110 $45,470 $52,060 +37%
423 Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers $69,500 $93,220 $94,850 +36%
424 Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers $76,610 $99,360 $103,600 +35%
425 Purchasing Managers $136,760 $163,240 $183,500 +34%
426 Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines $58,050 $69,430 $77,790 +34%
427 Fast Food and Counter Workers $34,750 $37,010 $46,200 +33%
428 Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education $63,400 $72,970 $83,890 +32%
429 Food Preparation Workers $35,400 $37,630 $46,200 +31%
430 Brickmasons and Blockmasons $60,030 $61,310 $78,050 +30%
431 Childcare Workers $37,050 $37,480 $47,860 +29%
432 Cashiers $34,310 $36,070 $44,160 +29%
433 Industrial Machinery Mechanics $69,430 $88,370 $89,400 +29%
434 Dental Laboratory Technicians $80,100 $103,370 $103,380 +29%
435 Electrical and Electronics Drafters $82,850 $82,850 $106,020 +28%
436 Special Education Teachers, Preschool $67,100 $68,000 $84,940 +27%
437 Ophthalmic Medical Technicians $47,150 $59,410 $59,830 +27%
438 Orderlies $37,160 $41,390 $47,330 +27%
439 Massage Therapists $50,650 $59,900 $64,200 +27%
440 Cooks, Restaurant $37,200 $38,120 $47,280 +27%
441 Cooks, Short Order $35,580 $37,010 $45,340 +27%
442 Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers $34,390 $39,120 $42,790 +24%
443 Crossing Guards and Flaggers $37,250 $39,660 $45,710 +23%
444 Dishwashers $34,790 $35,960 $42,070 +21%
445 Amusement and Recreation Attendants $33,490 $33,490 $40,440 +21%
446 Physical Therapist Aides $37,560 $37,630 $43,870 +17%
447 Food Batchmakers $34,990 $37,920 $39,800 +14%
448 Medical Transcriptionists $34,840 $35,580 $39,420 +13%
449 Parking Attendants $34,220 $35,210 $38,780 +13%
450 Home Health and Personal Care Aides $35,130 $37,010 $39,180 +12%
451 Prepress Technicians and Workers $93,810 $93,810 $105,390 +12%
452 Substitute Teachers, Short-Term $34,440 $34,440 $37,800 +10%
453 Animal Trainers $35,570 $36,230 $38,640 +9%
454 Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers $44,140 $45,360 $48,080 +9%
455 Cooks, Fast Food $35,080 $35,250 $37,490 +7%
456 Shampooers $33,490 $35,770 $35,900 +7%
457 Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health $76,350 $76,350 $78,410 +3%

Frequently Asked Questions About Career Progression in District of Columbia

What jobs have the highest salary growth in District of Columbia?

The job with the highest career growth premium in District of Columbia is Air Traffic Controllers at 481% — from $34,130 entry-level to $198,390 senior. District of Columbia has 457 occupations with full career progression data.

What is the average career salary growth in District of Columbia?

The average career growth premium across all 457 tracked occupations in District of Columbia is 114%. This measures the percentage increase from entry-level (P10) to senior (P90) salary.

How many jobs with career progression data are tracked in District of Columbia?

We track career progression data for 457 occupations in District of Columbia, using 2024 BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data.

What does entry-level vs senior salary mean?

Entry-level salary uses the 10th percentile (P10) from BLS data — 90% of workers earn more. Senior salary uses the 90th percentile (P90) — only 10% earn above this. The career growth premium is the percentage increase from P10 to P90.

Which states have the highest career salary growth?

Career growth premiums vary significantly by state and occupation. Use our national Career Progression hub to compare across all states, or explore individual job pages for state-by-state breakdowns.

Data: BLS OEWS 2024 (District of Columbia). P10 = 10th percentile (entry-level), P90 = 90th percentile (senior). Career growth premium = (P90 - P10) / P10 × 100%. Our Methodology · Data Sources