1

High School Principal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The School Principal serves as the instructional and operational leader of the school, responsible ... Promote high expectations for academic achievement, student engagement, and character development.

The School Principal serves as the instructional and operational leader of the school, responsible ... Promote high expectations for academic achievement, student engagement, and character development.

Showing results 41-60

High School Principal information

See salary details

$34K

$109.6K

$158K

How much do high school principal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for high school principal in the United States is $109,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,500.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the common challenges faced by high school principals in managing staff and student needs?

High school principals often navigate the complex challenge of balancing administrative responsibilities with the diverse needs of students and staff. They are responsible for creating a positive school culture, managing conflicts, implementing educational policies, and ensuring staff professional development. Additionally, principals must address student behavior, parent concerns, and maintain compliance with district and state regulations. Building strong relationships and fostering open communication are key strategies principals use to effectively manage these ongoing challenges.

What does a high school principal do?

A high school principal is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the school's operations, including academic programs, staff management, student discipline, and community relations. They work to create a safe and productive learning environment, implement school policies, and ensure compliance with educational standards. Principals also collaborate with teachers, students, and parents to support student achievement and foster school improvement. Their role requires strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills.

What qualifications do you need to be a high school principal?

To become a high school principal, candidates typically need a master's degree in education administration, leadership, or a related field, along with several years of teaching experience. A valid state administrator certification or license is usually required, and strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a high school principal, and why are they important?

To thrive as a High School Principal, you typically need a background in education, leadership experience, and a relevant master's degree or administrative certification. Familiarity with student information systems, educational technology platforms, and state regulatory requirements is important. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and organizational skills help principals manage staff, engage with students and families, and foster a positive school culture. These skills are vital for leading a school effectively, ensuring academic success, and creating a safe and supportive environment for all stakeholders.

What does a high school principal do?

A high school principal manages the daily operations and oversees all of the faculty and staff at a school. As a high school principal, you review all the school’s curriculum, discuss policies of the athletic and extracurricular departments, and read, analyze, and review test scores. It is your job to carry out district, state, or federal mandates regarding educational practices. The principal interviews and hires new faculty and interacts with parents and community members.

Do you need a PhD to be a high school principal?

A PhD is not required to become a high school principal; most principals hold a master's degree in education or a related field and have several years of teaching and administrative experience. Certification or licensure in educational leadership is typically necessary, and requirements can vary by state or district.

What is the difference between High School Principal vs Assistant Principal?

AspectHigh School PrincipalAssistant Principal
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, administrative certification, master's preferredBachelor's degree, administrative certification, master's preferred
Work EnvironmentOverall school leadership, policy implementationSupports principal, manages daily operations
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private high schoolsPublic and private high schools

The main difference between a high school principal and an assistant principal lies in their scope of responsibilities. The principal oversees the entire school, sets policies, and manages staff and student issues, while the assistant principal supports the principal by handling daily operations and disciplinary matters. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to school leadership, but the principal holds the top administrative position.

What cities are hiring for High School Principal jobs?

Cities with the most High School Principal job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of High School Principal jobs?

The most popular types of High School Principal jobs are:

What states have the most High School Principal jobs?

States with the most job openings for High School Principal jobs include:

Infographic showing various High School Principal job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,559 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Administration/Principal
Date Posted:
3/16/2026
Location:
Jr/Sr High School
Date Available:
07/01/2026
Closing Date:
04/01/2026
Jr/Sr High School Principal (Grades 6-12)
Position Purpose
Under the general supervision of the Superintendent of Schools, to provide leadership and supervision in administering the educational program of the High School in order to promote the educational development and achievement of students in accordance with Board of Education policies, administrative procedures, rules and regulations, and applicable law.
To provide leadership in program development and improvement, as well as in professional staff development.
Essential Functions
  • Develops and administers school programs consistent with school district goals and objectives.
  • Provides leadership and direction to staff with regard to the ongoing evaluation and improvement of educational programs, including curricular and extra-curricular activities.
  • Promotes a school environment that is safe and conducive to individualized instruction, cooperative curriculum development, and student learning.
  • Ensures that Board policies and procedures are implemented and followed at the school.
  • Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
  • Encourages staff to continue to grow professionally and to experiment with new approaches or strategies to teaching.
  • Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and reporting for all student activities, attendance and records as required by law.
  • Coordinates the work of school staff and school district program leaders to develop and implement instructional programs and teaching practices.
  • Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning, and works with teaching staff to modify instructional methods to fit students' needs, including students with special needs.
  • Coordinates with the central office in recruitment and selection of employees, the proper maintenance of employee personnel files, the administration of collective bargaining agreements, corrective action, and other human resource issues.
  • Organizes and conducts regular meetings with teachers for continuing development of instructional techniques.
  • Involves staff in the evaluation of programs and the planning of new programs.
  • Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
  • Ensures that student conduct conforms with the school's standards and school district policies.
  • Supervises and evaluates teaching staff and other building employees in accordance with the school district's evaluation plan, and makes recommendations regarding goals, areas needing improvement and continued employment.
  • Organizes and manages the budgetary and financial affairs of the school consistent with school district policies.

Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Superintendent and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.
Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Works in standard office and school building environments.
Note: Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Job Duties for this position.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiates instruction based upon student learning styles and behavioral management methods.
  • Knowledge of High School curriculum and concepts.
  • Knowledge of best practices in administration, program evaluation and staff supervision.
  • Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education.
  • Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
  • Ability to develop and implement projects.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
  • Ability to organize multiple tasks and conflicting time constraints.
  • Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to leadership, performance and professional growth.
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Qualifications Profile
Certification/License:
  • Illinois State Certification as required for position.
  • Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

Education
  • Bachelor's and Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in School Administration.
  • Evaluator certification in Illinois required.

Experience
  • Extensive successful teaching experience at the High School level, preferably in more than one subject area and grade level.
  • Successful administrative experience at the Junior High and/or High School level preferred.
  • Start date is July 1, 2026 with a salary range between $85,000-$110,000 based on administrative experience (210 day contract with paid sick and personal time, district paid TRS and insurance).
  • Orangeville Jr/Sr High School has an enrollment of approximately 160 students. For more information, please go to the district's website at www.orangevillecusd.com

FLSA Status: Exempt