Salaries at Washington University in St. Louis

At Washington University in St. Louis, located in Missouri, salary expectations for faculty and staff are determined by a combination of factors including role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between disciplines, with higher compensation typically offered in fields like medicine, law, and business compared to humanities or social sciences. The university also considers market competitiveness and internal equity when setting pay. While Washington University in St. Louis does not publicly publish detailed salary bands for all positions, some data may be accessible through state or federal reporting for public-facing roles or through aggregated surveys of higher education compensation.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is $70,000–$90,000 USD annually, depending on the department and research expectations. Entry-level roles may start lower but often include potential for research grants or bonuses.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is $90,000–$120,000 USD per year, reflecting mid-career status and often tied to tenure status or publication record.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically range from $120,000–$200,000+ USD annually, with higher earnings in specialized fields like medicine or engineering, often supplemented by external funding or endowments.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Program Coordinator): Salaries generally fall between $45,000–$65,000 USD per year, varying based on seniority and scope of responsibilities.
• Department Chair: Compensation often ranges from $150,000–$250,000 USD annually, reflecting leadership duties and academic prominence, with additional stipends possible.

Salaries at Washington University in St. Louis are generally competitive within the higher education sector, particularly for a private research institution of its caliber. Faculty compensation often aligns with benchmarks set by peer institutions in the Association of American Universities (AAU), ensuring attractiveness to top talent. Progression in salary is typically tied to promotion through academic ranks or increased administrative responsibilities, with periodic reviews for merit-based increases. While specific individual salaries are not publicly disclosed, the university’s commitment to attracting high-caliber professionals suggests a focus on market-driven pay, especially in high-demand fields. For prospective employees, understanding salary expectations may require direct negotiation or consultation during the hiring process.