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Principal Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Medical Writer

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

The Principal Medical Writer is responsible for the development and quality of medical content for publication to meet the educational needs of audiences across a range of therapeutic fields. In ...

Principal Proposal Writer

Reston, VA · On-site

$154K - $278K/yr

Our team seeks a Principal Proposal Writer with experience in traditional U.S. Government, FEDSIM, and commercial proposals. This position is within the Strategy & Business Development's Capture ...

The Principal Medical Writer will support 4D-150, a gene therapy in late-stage development for retinal vascular diseases, including nAMD and DME, and associated BLA-enabling activities as well as ...

Principal Medical Writer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$169K - $201K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for a Principal Medial Writer to join our team. This position is a hybrid role with 2 days a week on-site in our San Diego, Ca. office Summary: Responsible for ...

Trilogy Writing & Consulting,anIndegeneCompany, ishiring Senior/Principal Medical Writers (USA) to support our growing company in producing regulatory documentation for the international ...

Principal Medical Writer - Publications Syneos Health is a leading fully-integrated life sciences services organization built to accelerate customer success. We partner with innovators at every point ...

Acts as Lead Medical Writer on any type of writing project and can advise others on any type of document. Can act in a customer account management capacity and present, discuss, and answer questions ...

Acts as Lead Medical Writer on any type of writing project and can advise others on any type of document. Can act in a customer account management capacity and present, discuss, and answer questions ...

Principal Medical Writer

$119K - $159K/yr

Document Writing: * Manages the assigned writing tasks and ensures that the documents adhere to relevant regulatory guideline(s), as well as BeiGene SOP/WI(s), template(s), and style guide. * Be able ...

Acts as Lead Medical Writer on any type of writing project and can advise others on any type of document. Can act in a customer account management capacity and present, discuss, and answer questions ...

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Principal Writer information

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$11K

$186.5K

How much do principal writer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal writer in the United States is $185,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $185,000.00 and $185,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Principal Writer typically collaborate with subject matter experts and other team members on complex projects?

Principal Writers often serve as key liaisons between subject matter experts (SMEs), editors, and project managers, ensuring that technical or specialized content is accurately translated for the intended audience. They frequently lead content development meetings, coordinate feedback from various stakeholders, and mentor junior writers on best practices. Effective collaboration requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to synthesize input from multiple sources while maintaining consistency and clarity in the final deliverables.

What jobs make 3000 a month without a degree?

A principal writer or similar content creation roles can earn around $3,000 per month without a degree, especially with strong writing skills, experience, and a portfolio. Freelance writing, copywriting, or content marketing positions often pay this amount, particularly if working independently or through agencies. Success depends on skill level, niche expertise, and the ability to secure consistent clients or projects.

What is a Principal Writer?

A Principal Writer is a senior-level professional responsible for creating, managing, and overseeing high-quality written content, often in specialized fields such as technical writing, medical communications, or corporate communications. They serve as subject matter experts, provide strategic guidance on content development, and may mentor or supervise other writers. Principal Writers ensure that documentation or publications meet organizational standards and are clear, accurate, and effective for their intended audiences.

What is the difference between Principal Writer vs Senior Writer?

AspectPrincipal WriterSenior Writer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in English, Communications, or related field; extensive writing experienceBachelor's degree; several years of professional writing experience
Work EnvironmentLead role in content strategy, overseeing multiple projects and teamsFocus on producing high-quality content, often mentoring junior writers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, publishing, and media companies for senior content leadershipCommon in marketing, publishing, and media industries for experienced writers

The Principal Writer typically holds a higher level of responsibility, overseeing content strategy and managing teams, whereas the Senior Writer focuses on creating and refining content with less managerial duties. Both roles require strong writing skills and relevant experience, but the Principal Writer often leads projects and sets content direction.

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

To thrive as a Principal Writer, you need advanced writing and editing expertise, a deep understanding of subject matter, and often a relevant degree in English, communications, or a specialized field. Familiarity with content management systems, document collaboration tools, and style guides like AP or Chicago Manual of Style is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and project management skills help distinguish top performers in this senior role. These abilities ensure the production of high-quality, consistent content and effective guidance of writing teams or projects.
More about Principal Writer jobs
Infographic showing various Principal Writer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $185,359 per year, or $89.1 per hour.
Principal Technical Writer and Editor / Sr. Principal Technical Writer and Editor

Principal Technical Writer and Editor / Sr. Principal Technical Writer and Editor

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Annapolis, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 337 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 516 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Join Northrop Grumman on our continued mission to push the boundaries of possible across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.

The Naval & Oceanic Systems business unit headquartered in Annapolis, MD values proactive, respectful, communicative, and authentic self-starters with a demonstrated ability to own their tasking and dependably deliver on commitments.

The Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test & Logistics (SEIT&L) Department at Northrop Grumman Oceanic is seeking a Principal Technical Editor and Writer / Sr. Principal Technical Editor and Writer to join our team of dedicated and talented professionals.

As a Principal Technical Editor and Writer / Sr. Principal Technical Editor and Writer you will be responsible for writing, updating, and editing technical documents to include procedures, technical manuals, user manuals, programming manuals, service manuals, operational specifications, training documentation, and related technical publications enable the clear and effective communication of specifications and instructions to operators, maintainers, and subject matter experts. Candidates in this role will work in collaboration with design engineering and operations but will often serve as the sole writer on a program team, requiring the ability to envision and technical documentation produce work products independently (with design input).

Though not required, experience with Navy customers and underwater/naval systems such as torpedoes, towed vehicles, UUVs, ROVs, SONAR/sensor systems, underwater mechanical structures and cabling, submarine payloads, etc. is desired. Experience in anti-submarine warfare, seabed warfare, mine countermeasures, and Navy tactics would also be desirable. Multiple positions are available; assignments will be made based on the candidate's qualifications.

Our diverse and passionate engineering team encourages collaboration and is committed to personal and technical growth. We are distinguished by our welcoming, dependable workplace culture that supports work-life balance, innovation, and STEM outreach; all of which have made our campus a great place to work for 60 years.

This is a full-time on-site position located in Annapolis, MD.

This is a multi-level requisition; offers will be made commensurate with candidate experience and qualifications. Interested candidates should consider applying, even with lesser or greater levels of experience compared to the qualifications noted below.

Basic Qualifications for Principal Technical Writer:

To be considered for this position, you must, at a minimum, meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

  • Have a keen interest in working in the maritime surface / undersea domain.

  • Qualified applicants must have at least 5 years experience with a Bachelor's Degree, 3 years with a Master's Degree, 1 year of experience with a PhD or 9 years experience in leu of a degree

  • At least 5 years experience as a Technical Writer and Editor

  • Experience working with military technical documents and related material to include technical operational and maintenance instruction manuals, engineering change instructions, training development, training delivery, and integrated logistics support ARs, MIL Specifications, Technical Bulletins, IETMs, DIDs, etc.

  • Current Top Secret clearance, and willingness to obtain a TS/SCI with CI polygraph

Basic Qualifications for a Senior Principal Technical Writer:

To be considered for this position, you must, at a minimum, meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

  • Have a keen interest in working in the maritime surface / undersea domain.

  • Qualified applicants must have at least 8 years experience with a Bachelor's Degree, 6 years with a Master's Degree, 4 year of experience with a PhD or 12 years experience in leu of a degree

  • At least 8 years experience as a Technical Writer and Editor

  • Experience working with military technical documents and related material to include technical operational and maintenance instruction manuals, engineering change instructions, training development, training delivery, and integrated logistics support ARs, MIL Specifications, Technical Bulletins, IETMs, DIDs, etc.

  • Current Top Secret clearance, and willingness to obtain a TS/SCI with CI polygraph.

Preferred Qualifications:

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

  • Active TS/SCI clearance with CI poly

  • Master's Degree in English, Writing, Instructional Design, or related field

  • Certification in STE-100

  • Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM) process certification

  • 6+ years working with military technical documents related to training development, training delivery, and integrated logistics support (ARs, Mil Specifications and Preferences, Technical Bulletins, IETMs, DIDs, etc.)

  • Knowledge of Government Printing Office (GPO) style guide

  • Experience in:

  • Advanced Adobe Acrobat, InDesign, and/or Adobe Illustrator user

  • Experience using graphics editing applications - Adobe Photoshop/GIMP

  • Working in JIRA and Confluence, Arbortext, Quicksilver or other publishing software used on Government Contracts.

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.

Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including
Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

Primary Level Salary Range: $89,900.00 - $134,900.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $0.00 - $0.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939