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Principal Quality Assurance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$112 - $136/hr

The Principal Quality Assurance Engineer is a lead member of the Quality Assurance team. This individual is a technical expert and provides technical leadership for quality activities associated with ...

New

NY · On-site

$92 - $176/hr

We are seeking a Principal Quality Assurance (QA) Specialist/Reviewer to support our Fill Finish facility. In this role, you will perform all compliance related tasks necessary to review and approve ...

New

ACCELERATING YOUR FUTURE The Principal, QA - Validation is responsible for providing QA oversight of validation activities in support of facilities and equipment validation activities. This includes ...

Trains junior staff on regulations and quality processes Supports regulatory authority inspections Supports business development activities, as requestedStrong knowledge of current GCP regulations ...

New

Principal QA Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$140K - $184K/yr

The Principal IT QA engineer will be a hands-on, individual contributor responsible for designing and developing our testing automation framework utilizing Python, Playwright, PyTest, Java or TestNG.

Principal QA Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $184K/yr

The Principal IT QA engineer will be a hands-on, individual contributor responsible for designing and developing our testing automation framework utilizing Python, Playwright, PyTest, Java or TestNG.

## Sr. Principal QA EngineerApplylocations: Livermore, CAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: JR100900**Forming Our Future together**FormFactor, Inc. (NASDAQ: FORM), is a ...

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Principal Quality Assurance information

See salary details

$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal quality assurance jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal quality assurance 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 does a principal quality assurance do?

A Principal Quality Assurance (QA) professional oversees the quality assurance processes within an organization, ensuring products or services meet set standards and regulatory requirements. They develop, implement, and refine testing strategies, mentor QA teams, and collaborate with other departments to identify and resolve quality issues. Additionally, they may lead audits, manage compliance documentation, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Their role is critical in minimizing defects and ensuring customer satisfaction.

How does a principal quality assurance typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure product quality?

As a Principal Quality Assurance professional, you play a key leadership role in working closely with development, product management, and operations teams. You’ll often participate in design reviews, define testing strategies, and lead risk assessments to ensure quality is built into each stage of the product lifecycle. Effective communication and influence are crucial, as you’ll be responsible for aligning quality standards across teams and mentoring junior QA staff. This collaboration ensures that potential issues are identified early and that the final product meets both customer expectations and regulatory requirements.

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

To thrive as a Principal Quality Assurance professional, you need deep expertise in quality assurance methodologies, test planning, and a relevant degree, often supported by extensive experience in software or product testing. Familiarity with automation frameworks, test management tools (like Selenium, JIRA, or TestRail), and certifications such as ISTQB or Six Sigma are highly beneficial. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in leading teams and ensuring quality standards. These skills are crucial for driving continuous improvement, ensuring high product quality, and fostering collaboration across development and QA teams.

What is the difference between Principal Quality Assurance vs Quality Assurance Manager?

AspectPrincipal Quality AssuranceQuality Assurance Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in quality assurance, engineering, or related field; certifications like ASQ CQE or CQA are commonSimilar credentials as Principal QA, often with additional management certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic role focusing on quality standards, process improvements, and compliance across projectsOperational role overseeing QA teams, implementing testing processes, and managing daily quality activities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, software, and engineering sectors for senior technical leadershipCommon in various industries for team management and process oversight

The main difference is that the Principal Quality Assurance focuses on strategic quality initiatives and standards, while the Quality Assurance Manager handles day-to-day team management and process execution. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Principal Quality Assurance jobs

What cities are hiring for Principal Quality Assurance jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Quality Assurance job openings:

Infographic showing various Principal Quality Assurance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

$120K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title
PRINCIPAL, QA
Location
Bethesda, MD 20817 US (Primary)
Category
Quality Assurance
Job Type
Full-Time
Salary Range
$120,000-$145,000/YR
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Travel
Up to 75%
Job Description
  • Verifies GCP compliance to applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and regulations
  • Conducts audits of clinical sites and vendors/suppliers
  • Provides full support to the Quality Management System
  • Conduct external audits at clinical sites and vendor sites
  • Leads process improvement activities and CAPA investigations
  • Reviews clinical quality management plans and provides consultative support to clinical sites (as applicable.
  • Trains junior staff on regulations and quality processes
  • Supports regulatory authority inspections
  • Supports business development activities, as requested

Job Requirements
  • Strong knowledge of current GCP regulations
  • Experience with regulatory authority inspections
  • Experience working with Quality Systems for CROs
  • Experience conducting GCP clinical site audits
  • Excellent written/verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in MS Office

We are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law.