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Principal Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Slrconsulting

Principal Scientist

Anchorage, AK

SLR is seeking a principal scientist to serve in an hourly as needed (HAN) support role. This position is assigned to the Anchorage, Alaska office and will report to Joe Rubino, US Manager of ...

Fujifilm

Principal Scientist

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

Position Overview The Principal Scientist, Manufacturing Sciences and Technology (MSAT) will report to the head of Process & Analytical Development and Manufacturing Science & Technology (MSAT) at ...

Alphanumeric

Principal Scientist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$78 - $83.50/hr

Alphanumeric is hiring a PRINCIPAL SCIENTIST to work in Cambridge, MA with our client of 20 years committed to improving lives through medical and pharmaceutical advancements. Pay Range: $78.00 - $83 ...

Fujifilm

Principal Scientist

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

The Principal Scientist, Manufacturing Sciences and Technology (MSAT) will report to the head of Process & Analytical Development and Manufacturing Science & Technology (MSAT) at the FUJIFILM ...

Fujifilm

Principal Scientist

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

Position Overview The Principal Scientist, Manufacturing Sciences and Technology (MSAT) will report to the head of Process & Analytical Development and Manufacturing Science & Technology (MSAT) at ...

Kelly Services

Principal Scientist

Carolina, PR

How about this one? We're seeking an Principal Scientist to work with one of our top global biopharmaceutical clients in the Carolina, PR area. With us, it's all about finding the job that's just ...

Kelly Services

PR · On-site

How about this one? We're seeking an Principal Scientist to work with one of our top global biopharmaceutical clients in the Carolina, PR area. With us, it's all about finding the job that's just ...

Proteos

Be Seen First

Principal Scientist - X-ray Crystallography

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Position Overview The Principal Scientist, X-ray Crystallography, will play a foundational role in establishing and leading the organization's crystallography capability. This is a unique opportunity ...

Envista

Principal Scientist

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Principal Scientist serves as a subject matter expert and technical leader, driving innovation and high-impact research and development initiatives across dental chemical consumables. This role ...

Proteos

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Principal Scientist - X-ray Crystallography

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Position Overview The Principal Scientist, X-ray Crystallography, will play a foundational role in establishing and leading the organization's crystallography capability. This is a unique opportunity ...

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All JobsPrincipal Scientist Jobs

Principal Scientist information

See salary details

$68.5K

$144K

$190.5K

How much do principal scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal scientist in the United States is $144,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $169,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Principal Scientist?

A principal scientist takes the lead in research and development on a project. Staff researchers turn to the principal scientist for guidance and direction. As a principal scientist, your job duties include developing the research strategies to be used on the project, directing the research of staff scientists assigned to the project, and monitoring the progress of the study. The principal scientist may also be required to report progress to management and the funding organization.

What is the highest paid type of scientist?

Principal scientists in specialized fields such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or data science tend to be among the highest paid scientists, often earning six-figure salaries. Senior roles requiring advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities typically command the highest compensation in the scientific industry.

What is the difference between Principal Scientist vs Senior Scientist?

AspectPrincipal ScientistSenior Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD or equivalent), extensive research experienceMaster's or PhD, significant research background
Work EnvironmentLeads research projects, strategic planning, cross-functional collaborationConducts experiments, data analysis, supports project goals
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, tech companiesResearch labs, R&D departments in similar industries

The main difference between a Principal Scientist and a Senior Scientist lies in their level of responsibility and scope. Principal Scientists typically lead research initiatives, set strategic directions, and have more experience, while Senior Scientists focus on executing research tasks and supporting project objectives. Both roles require advanced degrees and research expertise, but Principal Scientists hold a higher leadership and strategic role within organizations.

What does a principal scientist do?

A principal scientist leads research projects, develops scientific strategies, and oversees experimental work within their field. They analyze data, publish findings, and collaborate with cross-functional teams, often requiring advanced degrees and expertise in specific scientific areas. Their role involves guiding innovation and ensuring research aligns with organizational goals.

What are Principal Scientists?

Principal Scientists are senior-level research professionals who lead scientific projects and teams within organizations such as research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, or technology firms. They are responsible for designing experiments, overseeing research operations, mentoring junior scientists, and ensuring the quality and innovation of scientific output. Principal Scientists often serve as subject matter experts and play a key role in strategic decision-making, grant writing, and publishing research findings. Their work significantly influences the direction and success of scientific initiatives.

How much does a principal scientist make in the US?

A principal scientist in the US typically earns an average salary ranging from $110,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles often include additional benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and professional development opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Principal Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific discipline, a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent), and a solid track record of research accomplishments. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and compliance with regulatory standards is typically required. Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills are essential for mentoring teams and collaborating across departments. These competencies enable Principal Scientists to drive innovation, ensure scientific rigor, and deliver impactful research outcomes.

How much does a principal scientist get paid?

A principal scientist's salary typically ranges from $100,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on factors such as industry, location, experience, and education. They often hold advanced degrees and have extensive research or technical expertise, which can influence compensation levels.

How does a Principal Scientist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a research organization?

Principal Scientists often serve as key liaisons between research, development, and business units. They lead project teams, facilitate knowledge sharing, and ensure scientific strategies align with organizational goals. Collaboration may involve guiding junior scientists, working with regulatory affairs, and coordinating with manufacturing or quality assurance departments to translate research findings into practical applications. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential, as Principal Scientists must synthesize diverse perspectives to drive projects forward.
More about Principal Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Principal Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Principal Scientist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Scientist jobs? The top employers for Principal Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Principal Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Principal Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Scientist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Scientist jobs? For Principal Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,009 per year, or $69.2 per hour.
Principal Scientist

Principal Scientist

Global Channel Management, Inc.

Marlborough, MA

$95/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Global Channel Management is a technology company that specializes in various types of recruiting and staff augmentation.  Our account managers and recruiters have over a decade of experience in various verticals. GCM understands the challenges companies face when it comes to the skills and experience needed to fill the void of the day to day function.  Organizations need to reduce training and labor costs but at same requiring the best "talent " for the job. 


Qualifications

Principal Scientist needs Minimum of 4-6 years in a pharmaceutical
organization or related industry with a minimum of 2-3 years
pharmaceutical experience in a clinical safety or regulatory affairs


Principal Scientist requires:


Master Degree or PhD in Medical Science, Pharmacy or Nursing preferred.

  • Minimum
    of 2-3 years of medical writing experience (Prefer experience in
    writing pharmaceutical reports such as PSURs, Clinical Study Reports,
    safety sections of the ISS and/or Common Technical Document, or white
    paper) and/or experience in Medical Surveillance and Risk Management.
  • Proven understanding of clinical disease state and implications of treatment.
  • At ease with data and statistics.
  • Knowledge
    of ICH, US & EU regulations and requirements for pharmacovigilance
    (experience with world-wide safety reporting regulations and guidelines)
    and Risk Management.

Required

  • CLINICAL SAFETY
  • CLINICAL STUDY
  • CLINICAL TRIAL
  • PHARMACOVIGILANCE
  • CLINICAL TRIALS


Principal Scientist duties:


  • Work with others to determine topics for discussion in Section 9; prepare first draft of Section 9 for Medical Director review
  • Follow-up on issues identified in regulatory responses (e.g., assessment reports)
Additional Information

$95/hr

12 MONTHS

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About Global Channel Management

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Global Channel Management is a technology company that specializes in various types of recruiting and staff augmentation. Global Channel Management understands the challenges companies face when it comes to the skills and experience needed to fill the void of the day to day function. Organizations need to reduce training and labor costs but at the same time requiring the best talent for the job. GCM's Ownership and Management teams have extensive Staffing, Recruiting, HR and Executive Leadership knowledge, Experience and Expertise. Our Understanding and Commitment to our Client's Satisfaction are key reasons GCM has been successful in establishing long term relationships.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austell, GA, US

Year founded

2009

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