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Managing Principal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Northern Impact

Managing Principal

Seattle, WA · On-site

Overview National Award-Winning Studio & Winner of Design Firm of the Year is actively seeking a Managing Principal for their new Seattle office. With over 20 offices across the U.S., the award ...

HMC Architects

Managing Principal

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$197K - $303K/yr

Job Summary The Managing Principal leads a business unit or cost center with full accountability for financial performance, operations, and strategic direction. This role drives business development ...

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Managing Principal information

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$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do managing principal jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for managing principal in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Managing Principal roles typically require advanced education and extensive experience, making it unlikely to earn $10,000 a month without a degree. However, some high-paying jobs such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers can reach or exceed this income level through experience, certifications, and commissions. Success in these fields often depends on skills, network, and performance rather than formal education alone.

What Is a Managing Principal?

A managing principal holds a leadership role within a company, and in some cases, you are also an owner or shareholder in the business. As a managing principal, your duties focus on client relations. In an investment business, for example, this means your career focuses on investor relations. A principal is a management position, so you need both educational qualifications that include a master’s degree or higher, and should be able to demonstrate strong leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Managing Principal, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Managing Principal, you need extensive leadership experience, business acumen, and a relevant advanced degree such as an MBA. Familiarity with enterprise management software, financial modeling tools, and industry-specific certifications like PMP or LEED are often advantageous. Strategic thinking, strong interpersonal skills, and effective decision-making set top performers apart in this role. These skills are vital for steering organizational direction, fostering client relationships, and ensuring sustainable business growth.

What is a Managing Principal?

A Managing Principal is a senior executive responsible for overseeing the operations and strategic direction of a firm or specific business unit, often within fields like architecture, consulting, or finance. They combine leadership duties with client management, ensuring that projects align with the company's goals and standards. Managing Principals typically supervise teams, develop business strategies, and maintain key client relationships. Their role is crucial for driving growth, maintaining profitability, and upholding the firm's reputation.

What are some typical leadership challenges faced by a Managing Principal, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Managing Principals often encounter challenges related to balancing strategic oversight with day-to-day operations and leading diverse teams toward shared goals. Navigating conflicting priorities, motivating staff, and driving organizational change are common hurdles. Effective communication, fostering a collaborative culture, and delegating responsibilities strategically are key to overcoming these challenges. Additionally, staying adaptable and investing in professional development—both for themselves and their teams—can help Managing Principals lead their organizations successfully.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Managing principals, especially in large consulting firms or executive leadership roles, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and profit sharing. High-level executive positions such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite roles also frequently reach or exceed this compensation level, typically requiring extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills.

What is the difference between Managing Principal vs Project Manager?

AspectManaging PrincipalProject Manager
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (e.g., MBA, relevant certifications)Often requires PMP or similar project management certifications
Work EnvironmentLeadership role in consulting, architecture, or professional services firmsProject execution within various industries, including construction, IT, and engineering
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in consulting, architecture, and professional services firmsCommon across multiple industries managing specific projects

The Managing Principal generally oversees multiple projects and strategic direction within a firm, requiring broader leadership and business skills. In contrast, a Project Manager focuses on executing specific projects, managing teams, and ensuring project deliverables. While both roles require strong organizational skills, the Managing Principal has a higher level of strategic responsibility and client engagement.

What does a managing principal do?

A managing principal is a senior leader responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, operations, and financial performance of an organization or a specific division. They often lead teams, develop business plans, and ensure goals are met, requiring strong leadership, management skills, and industry knowledge.

What is the highest paying management job?

The highest paying management roles are often executive positions such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), or Chief Financial Officer (CFO), with salaries frequently exceeding several hundred thousand dollars annually, especially in large corporations. These roles typically require extensive experience, strategic leadership skills, and often advanced degrees or certifications.
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Managing Principal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Managing Principal job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Managing Principal

Northern Impact

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Overview
National Award-Winning Studio & Winner of Design Firm of the Year is actively seeking a Managing Principal for their new Seattle office. With over 20 offices across the U.S., the award-winning architecture + design firm specializes in K-12 through college/university, healthcare, sports, and corporate business sectors across the U.S. The company has won over 500 design awards and is recognized for shaping learning environments for students and the community. It's well-established culture has also led the firm being named to the list of "Best Places to Work." For over forty years, the multidisciplinary studio has created a client base of more than two hundred clients, a list that includes university systems, hospital systems, school districts, and Fortune 500 companies.
Job Overview
We're seeking an accomplished architectural leader to establish and grow a new office in the Seattle-to-Everett corridor for a nationally recognized, award-winning architecture firm. This is a rare opportunity to build something from the ground up-shaping office culture, developing key client relationships, and defining our regional presence-all while leveraging the resources, expertise, and support of an established firm.
As the founding office leader, you'll drive business development, lead design excellence, build and mentor a talented team, and deliver projects that make a lasting impact on the communities we serve.
What You'll Do
  • Establish and lead the strategic growth of a new office serving the Greater Seattle region
  • Cultivate and deepen client relationships across K-12 and higher education sectors
  • Oversee project design and delivery with a commitment to quality, innovation, and design excellence
  • Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing, collaborative team
  • Partner with firm leadership to align office goals with the company's broader vision and values

Here's What You'll Need:
  • Licensed architect with 15+ years of experience, including demonstrated leadership
  • Prior K-12 and/or Higher Education experience required
  • A strong professional network within the Puget Sound AEC community
  • Proven track record in business development and client relationship management
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex, mission-driven projects
  • A passion for design excellence and a collaborative, people-first leadership style

This position provides an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a respected architectural firm while advancing both client success and firm growth.
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