The average Senior Scrum Master's salary is $113,000. Check out our updated data and learn more about junior/mid-level/senior salaries.
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Quick Summary (US) Based On Glassdoor Data - 12/24/2023
In our blog post, the term "salary" refers to the base salary plus any additional pay, such as a bonus or commission. First, let us check out Scrum Master salary by level of experience.
Salary | Average Salary | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
Junior Scrum Master Salary | $96,000 | $76,000 | $121,000 |
Scrum Master Salary | $113,000 | $92,000 | $140,000 |
Senior Scrum Master Salary | $144,000 | $120,000 | $175,000 |
In this section, we will provide a comprehensive guide on Scrum Master salaries in December 2023. As the adoption of Agile methodology continues to grow in the software development industry, companies are increasingly prioritizing the role of Scrum Masters in their teams.
Understanding the salary trends and projections in this field is crucial for both experienced Scrum Masters and individuals considering a career in Agile. We will explain the factors that affect Scrum Master salaries, average salaries in the United States, salary differences based on location and industry. By the end of this guide, you will have a complete understanding of what to expect in terms of earning potential in the Scrum Master role.
What is a Scrum Master?
At the core of every agile software development team is the Scrum Master. This individual serves as a facilitator, guide, and coach for the team as they work together to deliver high-quality software in a timely manner. The Scrum Master's primary responsibility is to ensure that the team follows the principles and practices of the Scrum framework, which includes organizing and facilitating meetings, removing obstacles, and tracking progress.
The Scrum Master acts as a servant-leader, working to empower the team and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. They help team members identify areas for growth and work with them to develop new skills and best practices. Additionally, the Scrum Master plays a key role in communication and coordination between the development team and other stakeholders, such as product owners and business leaders.
Read our blog post about the scrum master role to learn more.
Factors Affecting Scrum Master Salary
As with any profession, several factors can impact a Scrum Master's salary. It is essential to understand these factors to negotiate better salaries and make informed career decisions. Below are some of the key factors affecting the salary of a SM:
1. Experience
Experience is one of the critical factors that can impact a Scrum Master's salary. Entry-level Scrum Masters with less than a year of experience typically earn lower salaries than their more experienced counterparts. Mid-level Scrum Masters with three to five years of experience can command higher salaries, while senior Scrum Masters with more than five years of experience generally earn the most.
2. Location
The geographic location of where a Scrum Master works is another significant factor that can affect their salary. Salaries vary significantly between regions, with some cities offering higher salaries than others. For example, tech hubs such as San Francisco and New York City tend to offer higher salaries due to a higher cost of living.
3. Industry
The salary of a Scrum Master can be influenced by the industry in which they work. For instance, Scrum Masters in the IT industry may receive higher salaries compared to those in healthcare or finance. However, this can vary depending on the company and location.
4. Certifications
Scrum Masters who have obtained relevant certifications may earn higher salaries than those who do not. For example, a Certified Scrum Master (CSM) designation can increase a Scrum Master's earning potential since it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and knowledge in the field.
It's important to note that the factors listed above are not exhaustive, and other variables may influence a Scrum Master's salary. By understanding these factors, Scrum Masters can make more informed career decisions and negotiate better salaries.
Average Salary by Level of Experience
Scrum master salaries can vary greatly depending on experience level. Junior level positions typically pay less than mid-level and senior positions.
According to data from Glassdoor, the average annual salaries in the United states are:
- 1Junior Scrum Master salary: $76,000-$121,000 per year.
- 2Scrum Master salary: between $92,000 and $140,000 per year.
- 3Senior Scrum Master salary: $120,000 to $175,000 per year.
Experience level is not the only factor that can impact the salary. Location, industry, and certifications can also play a role. However, gaining experience is a crucial step towards a higher salary in this role.
If you're just starting out as a scrum master, it's important to focus on building your additional skills, soft skills, communication skills and gaining experience. Look for opportunities to work on different projects and collaborate with different teams to expand your knowledge. As you gain more experience, you can expect to see your salary increase as well.
* last updated: 12/24/2023 - source: Glassdoor
Average Mid-Level Scrum Master Salary by Tech Hub
Location plays a significant role in determining the earning potential of a scrum master in the United States. While the average salary for a scrum master nationwide is $113,000 per year, the highest paying regions tend to be on the East and West coasts.
Tech Hub | Average Salary | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
Atlanta, GA | $108,000 | $89,000 | $131,000 |
Austin, TX | $109,000 | $89,000 | $133,000 |
Boston, MA | $113,000 | $92,000 | $138,000 |
Boulder, CO | $113,000 | $93,000 | $138,000 |
Chicago, IL | $108,000 | $88,000 | $132,000 |
Huntsville, AL | $107,000 | $88,000 | $132,000 |
Miami, FL | $107,000 | $85,000 | $135,000 |
New York, NY | $119,000 | $95,000 | $149,000 |
Philadelphia, PA | $109,000 | $90,000 | $133,000 |
Raleigh, NC | $107,000 | $88,000 | $131,000 |
San Jose, CA | $135,000 | $112,000 | $163,000 |
Seattle, WA | $118,000 | $96,000 | $145,000 |
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Scrum masters working in smaller cities and rural areas may earn lower salaries than the national average.
It is worth noting that the cost of living in a particular area can also affect the overall compensation package for a scrum master, so it is important to consider both the salary and living expenses when evaluating different job opportunities.
* last updated: 12/24/2023 - source: Glassdoor
Average Mid-Level Scrum Master Salary by State
State | Average Salary | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
Alabama | $97,000 | $99,000 | $121,000 |
California | $125,000 | $102,000 | $153,000 |
Colorado | $112,000 | $92,000 | $137,000 |
Florida | $104,000 | $83,000 | $130,000 |
Georgia | $107,000 | $86,000 | $132,000 |
Illinois | $105,000 | $88,000 | $126,000 |
Massachusetts | $112,000 | $92,000 | $136,000 |
New York | $117,000 | $92,000 | $149,000 |
North Carolina | $108,000 | $88,000 | $132,000 |
Pennsylvania | $106,000 | $88,000 | $129,000 |
Texas | $108,000 | $89,000 | $132,000 |
Washington | $117,000 | $95,000 | $146,000 |
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* last updated: 12/24/2023 - source: Glassdoor
Scrum Master Salary by Industry
One of the major factors that affect the scrum master salary is the industry they work in. Different industries have varying compensation packages based on their needs and budgets.
- 1Finance industry is currently the highest paying industry for scrum masters. The finance industry is highly regulated, and agile methodologies can help financial institutions stay compliant while remaining competitive in their markets. Average Mid-Level Scrum Master Salary in Financial Services industry is from $95,000 to $144,000 per year with an average of $116,000 per year.
- 2The Information Technology (IT) industry is also a promising industry for scrum masters. IT companies are always looking for skilled and experienced scrum masters to handle their agile software development teams. As a result, they are willing to offer lucrative salaries to attract and retain top talent. Average Mid-Level Scrum Master Salary in IT industry is from $94,000 to $139,000 per year with an average of $114,000 per year.
- 3The healthcare industry is another industry where scrum masters can expect to earn a competitive salary. Healthcare organizations are increasingly adopting agile methodologies to improve patient outcomes and optimize their operations. This has created a growing demand for scrum masters in the healthcare industry. Average Mid-Level Scrum Master Salary in healthcare is from $92,000 to $139,000 per year with an average of $113,000 per year.
- 4Other industries that offer promising career opportunities for scrum masters include telecommunications, retail, and manufacturing.
It is important for scrum masters to research the industries they are interested in and understand the salary expectations before pursuing job opportunities. Knowing the industry trends and demands can help them negotiate for the best possible compensation package.
* last updated: 12/24/2023 - source: Glassdoor
Senior Scrum Master Salary in the Financial Services industry
Scrum Masters are especially important for the financial services industry because:
- 1Regulatory Compliance: The industry is heavily regulated. Scrum Masters ensure that agile practices do not overlook compliance needs.
- 2Complex Systems: Financial systems are intricate. They facilitate change management without disrupting these systems.
- 3Rapid Changes: The financial market changes quickly. Scrum Masters help teams adapt promptly to market demands.
- 4Stakeholder Management: There are multiple stakeholders in finance. Scrum Masters align their needs and prioritize work effectively.
- 5Risk Management: Financial errors can be costly. Scrum Masters ensure that risks are identified and addressed early.
- 6Continuous Improvement: To stay competitive, financial firms need to evolve. Scrum Masters foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
The presence of Scrum Masters in the financial sector is of particular importance. But let us see how much the sector is willing to pay for their experience. The salaries above are Senior Scrum Master average salaries in the US.
Years of Experience | Average Salary | 25th percentile (low) | 75th percentil (high) |
|---|---|---|---|
4-6 years | $132,000 | $108,000 | $163,000 |
7-9 years | $137,000 | $113,000 | $168,000 |
10-14 years | $145,000 | $120,000 | $176,000 |
15+ | $152,000 | $126,000 | $184,000 |
* last updated: 12/24/2023 - source: Glassdoor
Scrum Master Salary vs. Other Agile Roles in the united States
While the role of a scrum master is crucial in ensuring the success of an agile software development team, it's important to understand how their salaries compare to other roles within the agile ecosystem. According to recent data, the average salary for a Scrum Master in the United States ranges from $92,000 to $140,000 with an average of around $113,000 per year. How does this compare to other agile roles? Let's take a closer look.
Product Owners
A product owner is responsible for defining and prioritizing the product backlog, ensuring that the development team is building the right product features. With an average annual salary of a Product Owner ranges from $107,000 to $172,000 with an average of around $135,000, product owners tend to earn more than scrum masters. However, the gap in salaries may vary depending on the industry and geographic location.
Agile Coaches
An agile coach is responsible for guiding the agile transformation process within an organization, helping teams adopt and implement agile practices effectively. The salary of an Agile Coach ranges from $125,000 to $187,000 woth and average salary of around $152,000 per year, making it one of the highest paying roles in the agile ecosystem. However, agile coaching requires a deeper level of expertise and experience than the role of a scrum master.
While salaries for scrum masters may not be the highest in the agile ecosystem, it's important to note that the role is critical in ensuring the effective functioning of the agile development process. With the right experience, certifications, and negotiation skills, scrum masters can maximize their earning potential and advance their career in the agile ecosystem.
* last updated: 12/24/2023 - source: Glassdoor
Salary Projections
As the demand for scrum masters continues to grow, we can expect to see an upward trend in salary projections.
Factors that may contribute to this salary growth include the increasing popularity of agile methodologies, the need for more experienced IT professionals to manage larger development teams, and the rise of remote work options that allow companies to hire top talent from anywhere in the country.
However, it is important to note that salary projections may vary depending on several factors, including location, industry, and experience level. For instance, scrum masters working in major tech hubs such as Silicon Valley and New York City can expect to earn higher salaries, while those in less competitive markets may have more modest salary projections.
Additionally, scrum masters with advanced certifications, such as Certified Scrum Professional (CSP) or Certified Scrum Trainer (CST), may have higher earnings potential compared to those with only the entry-level Certified Scrum Master (CSM) certification.
Despite the positive salary projections, it's crucial for scrum masters to stay up to date with the latest industry trends and continuously improve their skills to remain competitive in the job market. By staying informed and actively pursuing professional development opportunities, scrum masters can position themselves for success and maximize their earning potential in the upcoming years.
Tips for Maximizing Your Salary
Being a scrum master can be a lucrative career choice, but it's essential to know how to maximize your earning potential. Here are our tips for ensuring you get paid what you're worth:
- 1Invest in Your Education and Certifications: Continuously learning and improving your skills and knowledge is key to becoming a highly sought-after scrum master. Pursuing advanced education, such as a master's degree in business or software development, can give you a competitive edge. Additionally, obtaining relevant certifications, such as the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) or Professional Scrum Master (PSM), can often lead to higher salaries.
- 2Network and Build Relationships: Networking and building relationships within your industry and community can help you uncover job opportunities and potential leads for higher-paying positions. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and engage with other industry professionals on social media platforms to expand your network.
- 3Negotiate Your Salary and Benefits Package: Don't be afraid to negotiate your salary and benefits package when considering a new job or approaching your employer for a raise. Research industry standards and salary ranges for scrum masters in your location and experience level to ensure you're asking for a fair and competitive compensation package.
- 4Consider Contract or Freelance Work: Contract or freelance work can often pay more than traditional salaried positions. Consider working as a consultant or contractor to earn a higher hourly rate or to negotiate a project-based fee.
- 5Seek Out High-Paying Industries and Companies: Some industries and companies simply pay higher salaries for scrum masters than others. Research and target companies in industries like finance or healthcare, which are known to pay higher-than-average salaries for agile professionals.
- 6Demonstrate Your Value as a Scrum Master: Ultimately, the best way to maximize your salary is to demonstrate your value. Be a team player, go above and beyond in your role, and consistently deliver high-quality work. When you can prove that you're an indispensable asset to your team and your company, you'll be in a better position to negotiate a salary that reflects your worth.
FAQ
Q: What is a Scrum Master?
A: A Scrum Master is a role in agile software development teams responsible for facilitating the scrum process and ensuring that the team adheres to scrum principles and practices. They serve as a coach, facilitator, and mentor to the team, helping to remove any obstacles and enabling the team to work efficiently and effectively.
Q: What factors can affect a Scrum Master's salary?
A: Several factors can influence a Scrum Master's salary, including their level of experience, the location where they work, the industry of their employer, and any certifications they may hold. Additionally, the size and complexity of the projects they manage can also impact their earning potential.
Q: What is the average salary range for Scrum Masters in the United States?
A: The average salary range for Scrum Masters in the United States can vary depending on factors such as experience and location. On average, a Mid-Level Scrum Masters can expect to earn between $92000 and $140,000 per year. However, salaries can exceed this range for more experienced and highly skilled professionals.
Q: How do Scrum Master salaries differ based on experience level?
A: Salaries can vary based on experience level. Junior level Scrum Masters may earn around $76,000 to $121,000 per year, while Scrum Masters can expect to earn between $92,000 and $140,000 per year. Senior Scrum Masters with extensive experience and leadership roles can earn from $120,000 to $175,000 or even more.
Q: Are there regional differences in Scrum Master salaries?
A: Yes, there are regional differences in Scrum Master salaries across major cities in the United States. Generally, larger cities with a higher cost of living, such as San Francisco, New York, and Seattle, tend to offer higher salaries. However, it's important to consider the cost of living when evaluating salary offers in different locations.
Q: How does the industry affect Scrum Master salaries?
A: The salary of a Scrum Master can be influenced by the industry they work in. Industries such as IT, finance, and healthcare often offer higher salaries for Scrum Masters due to the demand for agile methodologies and the complexity of the projects involved. However, the specific requirements and demand within each industry may vary.
Q: How do Scrum Master salaries compare to other agile roles?
A: Salaries can differ from other agile roles such as product owners and agile coaches. While there may be some overlap in responsibilities, each role has its own unique skill set and contribution to the development process. Generally, Scrum Masters and agile coaches tend to have similar salary ranges, while product owners may earn slightly higher salaries due to their strategic decision-making responsibilities.
Q: What tips can help maximize a Scrum Master's salary?
A: To maximize your salary, consider the following tips:
1. Continuously improve your scrum knowledge and skills by pursuing certifications and attending relevant training.
2. Seek opportunities to take on larger and more complex projects that showcase your leadership and management abilities.
3. Network with industry professionals and attend agile conferences to stay updated on industry trends and job opportunities.
4. Keep track of your accomplishments and be prepared to negotiate for higher salaries during performance reviews or when changing jobs.
5. Consider specializing in a specific industry or domain to increase your marketability and earning potential.
Please check out our other blog posts for salary information on other IT roles:
