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Principal Validation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the direction of the Director of Validation, the Principal Validation Engineer will be accountable for performing activities such as Equipment Commissioning and Qualification, Cycle Development ...

Under the direction of the Director of Validation, the Principal Validation Engineer will be accountable for performing activities such as Equipment Commissioning and Qualification, Cycle Development ...

Your Team, Your Impact The Principal Validation Engineer (Lead) will own the lab validation strategy and execution for advanced ASIC/SoC products integrating CXL 3.x, HBM, DDR, PCIe, and high-speed ...

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Principal Validation Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal validation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal validation engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Principal Validation Engineer?

A Principal Validation Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for leading and overseeing the validation processes within engineering projects, particularly in industries like pharmaceuticals, electronics, or manufacturing. They ensure that products, equipment, or systems meet regulatory standards and function as intended through rigorous testing and documentation. Principal Validation Engineers often develop validation protocols, analyze test results, and mentor junior engineers. Their work is crucial for quality assurance and compliance with industry regulations.

What is the difference between Principal Validation Engineer vs Validation Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Validation EngineerValidation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (BSc, MSc, or PhD) and extensive industry experienceUsually requires a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads validation projects, oversees teams, and collaborates with cross-functional departmentsPerforms validation tasks, executes protocols, and documents results under supervision
Industry UsageCommonly found in pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industriesWidely used across similar regulated industries for validation activities

The main difference between a Principal Validation Engineer and a Validation Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership scope. The Principal Validation Engineer typically holds advanced credentials, leads validation strategies, and manages teams, whereas the Validation Engineer focuses on executing validation tasks under guidance. Both roles are essential in regulated industries like pharmaceuticals and medical devices, but the Principal role involves higher-level planning and oversight.

How does a Principal Validation Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during new product development?

As a Principal Validation Engineer, you will frequently work alongside design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to ensure that products meet regulatory and performance standards. Collaboration often involves participating in design reviews, establishing validation strategies, and communicating test results to stakeholders. Your expertise will be crucial in troubleshooting issues and recommending design modifications, making strong communication and teamwork skills essential. This collaborative approach not only ensures product reliability but also streamlines the development process and supports continuous improvement.

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

To thrive as a Principal Validation Engineer, you need deep expertise in validation protocols, regulatory compliance (such as FDA or ISO standards), and a relevant engineering or science degree. Familiarity with validation lifecycle documentation, risk management tools, and computerized systems validation (CSV) is typically required, along with certifications like Six Sigma or ASQ CQA being advantageous. Strong leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial for guiding teams and collaborating across departments. These competencies ensure that products and processes consistently meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and organizational goals.
More about Principal Validation Engineer jobs
What states have the most Principal Validation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Validation Engineer jobs include:
Principal Validation Engineer

Principal Validation Engineer

Genentech, Inc.

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

$95K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Genentech rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 71 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Under the direction of the Director of Validation, the Principal Validation Engineer will be accountable for performing activities such as Equipment Commissioning and Qualification, Cycle Development (CD), Performance Qualification (PQ) and Re-Qualification (RPQ) / Cleaning Validation (CV) and Process Validation (PV) in support of technology transfer and new technology introduction to the HTO site.
The Opportunity
  • Develop and manage the detailed project plans and timelines for the execution of validation activities.
  • Prepare change control documentation, including protocols, summary reports, etc., for all activities.
  • Support project manager ensuring new systems are implemented within predetermined timelines and financial forecasts.
  • Present and provide rationale for completed work during periodic audits and Health Authority inspections.
  • Procure and manage contractor support for outsourced validation and risk management assignments.
  • Support the change management system for new processes, equipment, utilities and facilities.
  • Prepare, review and approve relevant sections of regulatory submissions.
  • Serve as a risk management representative on cross-functional and multi-site teams to support integrating risk management into various Product Quality Systems (PQS) such as, Discrepancy Management, Change Control and CAPA.
  • Lead and facilitate Risk Assessment sessions.
  • Provide input into investigations and change control with potential impact to the site risk profile.
  • Foster an environment that encourages continuous learning. Maintain expertise as necessary to stay abreast of technical and industry advancements.
  • Mentor more junior validation engineers and train individuals on practices and procedures.
  • Closely collaborates with site and network organizations seamlessly
  • Constantly in search of the most creative and innovative solutions to maintaining the highest levels of productivity
  • Able to provide the leadership necessary to maintain a high performance culture

Who You Are:
  • BS/MS in chemical, biochemical engineering, or related field/experience, with a minimum of 8+ years experience in drug product Process Research & Development, Engineering, Manufacturing, or Technical Services is required.
  • Experience in the pharma/biotech industry is required
  • Knowledge of cGMPs or equivalent regulations
  • Working knowledge of facilities, utilities, formulation, filling, and packaging, equipment qualification in a regulated environment is required.
  • Demonstrated project management skills
  • Ability to work with internal teams, partners, suppliers and customers
  • Operational excellence and industrial engineering skills are a plus
  • Professional level written and oral communication skills required

Relocation benefits are not available for this position.
The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of Oregon is $95,200 to $176,800. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.
Benefits
Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.
If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.

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About Genentech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 40 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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