▲23%
$159,310
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$88k
MEDIAN
$159k
90%
$303k
The average salary for a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) is $159,310 in 2025
Base Salary
$88k - $303k
Bonus
$10k - $78k
Total Pay
$88k - $395k
Is Average Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) with Molecular Biology Skills Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s?
▲15%
What Do Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s Do?
Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) Tasks
- Provide scientific guidance on strategic and operating decisions, setting strategy, and performance goals.
- Manage staff and set timelines, including scientific and regulatory training.
- Set up protocols for and personally handle regulatory documents and inspections.
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)
Medical
92%
Dental
77%
Vision
69%
None
8%
Gender Breakdown for Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s
Female
85.7%
Male
14.3%
This data is based on 7 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s
What is the highest pay for Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) is $303k / year
What is the lowest pay for Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) is $88k / year
How can Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) that oversees more junior Chief Scientific Officer (CSO)s, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.