What could you earn as a Clinical Specialist?

The role of a Clinical Specialist is a unique one.

It's commercial, but it's also clinical. It's sales-adjacent, but it's also training-focused. It supports sales, but it also supports end-users. 

It's no wonder so many people with a clinical background who are looking to move away from the NHS or private practice look to Clinical Specialist roles as their next step, their move into a commercial environment. But if you're thinking about making that move, or you’re a few years in and considering your next steps, it can be hard to know what the right financial decision is for you. That's where we come in - here's what you could be earning.

So what do average salaries and bonuses look like?

• If you're in the UK you can expect to earn between £45,000 - £50,000. You'll also typically receive a bonus of around 15%
• If you're in Europe you're looking at an average salary of €60,000 -  €80,000, with an average bonus of around 15%
• If you're in the US, then you're likely to earn between $70,000 - $75,000. This is typically accompanied by a bonus of around 10%

What impacts salary and bonus levels?

The biggest thing that impacts salary levels for Clinical Specialists is experience and specific background. At entry-level this tends to make the least amount of difference - as typically people come in with limited commercial experience but lots of clinical! As you grow in the role and look to more senior positions, the more exposure you have to sales cycles and processes, the higher salary you can command. 

A great way to secure the upper end of a salary bracket when you're just starting out, though, is to come to an interview ready to prove you have commercial savvy. Any sort of shadowing or sales experience can help boost that basic salary.

Therapy area will also have an impact on your salary. If you're working with high-tech or high-value products, think robotics, cardiology, etc, then your salary is likely to be higher due to the complexity of the portfolio you're working with. That's not to say money can’t be made with consumables, though. Whilst they have lower margins you're likely to be involved in more sales processes, meaning bonus earnings can be more regular.

Whilst it doesn't always have an immediate impact on your pay, pursuing (or already having!) industry certifications can enhance your progression which, ultimately, impacts what you take home.
 

Want more info?

If you're interested in making the transition from a clinical role to a commercial one, download our 2025 Clinical to Commercial Guide here. 

If you want to know more about average salaries, bonuses and benefits from across the medical devices space, download our 2025 Salary Report here.