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Principal Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Diocese of Green Bay

Principal / Administrator

Freedom, WI · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Saint Nicholas Catholic School is searching for a visionary principal to lead our Preschool 3-Grade 8 school community starting in July, 2026. This is not just a job--it's a calling to shape young ...

Schreiber Foods

Principal Scientist

Green Bay, WI · On-site

Science We are seeking an innovative and strategic Principal Scientist to drive the development of new products, processes, and ingredient solutions in the dairy and plant-based sectors. This role ...

Brunswick

Principal Calibration Engineer

Oshkosh, WI

$103K - $144K/yr

As a Principal Calibration Engineer on the Engine and Vessel Calibration team you will be responsible for delivering complete engine and vessel calibration to support production of new and current ...

Lund Boats

Principal Calibration Engineer

Oshkosh, WI

$103K - $144K/yr

As a Principal Calibration Engineer on the Engine and Vessel Calibration team you will be responsible for delivering complete engine and vessel calibration to support production of new and current ...

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All JobsPrincipal JobsPrincipal Jobs in Appleton, WI

Principal information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$34.7K

$104.1K

$173.2K

How much do principal jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal in Appleton, WI is $104,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,900.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the jobs of a principal?

A principal is the head administrator of a school responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing staff, implementing educational policies, and ensuring student success. They also handle budgeting, discipline, and communication with parents and the community, often requiring leadership skills and educational certifications. The role typically involves setting school goals and maintaining a safe, productive learning environment.

How old are principals usually?

Principals are typically experienced educators who usually start their careers as teachers in their early to mid-20s and often become principals in their 30s or 40s after gaining several years of teaching and administrative experience. Most states require principals to hold a master's degree in education or school administration and to have a valid teaching license, with some requiring additional certification or administrative credentials. Age varies, but principals are generally in their late 30s to 50s when they hold the position.

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

To thrive as a Principal, you need a solid background in educational leadership, curriculum development, and typically a master's degree in education administration or a related field. Familiarity with student information systems, data analysis tools, and relevant certifications such as state principal licensure are commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, decision-making, and the ability to inspire and manage staff are essential soft skills for success. These competencies are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving school improvement initiatives.

How much do most principals make?

Most principals earn a median annual salary of around $98,000, though this can vary based on location, school size, and experience. Experienced principals in larger districts or high-paying regions may earn over $130,000 annually.

What are principals?

Principals are the lead administrators of schools, responsible for overseeing all daily operations, managing staff and students, and ensuring a safe and effective learning environment. They set educational goals, implement school policies, and work to improve academic performance and school culture. Principals also serve as the main point of communication between the school, parents, and the community. Their leadership is essential in shaping the direction and success of a school.

Where do principals make the most money?

Principals tend to earn the highest salaries in large, urban school districts and private schools, where budgets are bigger and administrative roles often require advanced degrees and certifications. Factors such as experience, school size, and geographic location also influence salary levels for principals.

What are some common challenges principals face when balancing administrative duties with instructional leadership?

Principals often find it challenging to balance their time between administrative responsibilities—such as budgeting, compliance, and facility management—and their role as instructional leaders focused on curriculum development and teacher support. Effective principals prioritize tasks, delegate when appropriate, and implement systems to streamline administrative processes, allowing them to spend more time in classrooms and mentoring staff. Building a strong leadership team and fostering open communication are key strategies for managing these dual responsibilities successfully.

What Do Principals Do?

Principals are the lead administrators of schools. They are responsible for training and managing the staff, selecting curriculum, monitoring the school budget, and dealing with parent concerns. Principals must also deal with disciplinary issues that have escalated beyond what the student’s teacher can handle. They represent the school in district administration meetings and advocate for more funding or staff, new equipment, facility repairs, or anything else the school needs.

More about Principal jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal jobs in Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Principal jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal jobs in Appleton, WI? For Principal jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Principal jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Principal jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Principal job openings:
Principal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,108 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Associate Principal of Athletics and Activities (Activities Director) - 1.0 FTE - Appleton West High

Associate Principal of Athletics and Activities (Activities Director) - 1.0 FTE - Appleton West High

Appleton Area School District

Appleton, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Appleton Area School District rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 617 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Position Type:
Administrator/Associate Principal
Date Posted:
7/27/2026
Location:
West High School
Date Available:
08/03/2026
Closing Date:
07/31/2026
The Appleton Area School District has a position available for a 1.0 FTE Associate Principal of Athletics and Activities (Activities Director) at Appleton West High School beginning on 8/3/2026.
Teach Where Excellence Has a History.
At Appleton West High School, educators join a long-standing tradition of excellence and lifelong learning that dates back to 1938. Our staff works together to build a supportive, resilient school community where every student and every colleague is valued, challenged, and encouraged to grow. Guided by shared values of inclusion, compassion, excellence, growth, loyalty, and perseverance, Appleton West is a place where educators can make a meaningful impact and feel proud of the work they do. Go Terrors!
Certification Required: Principal (5051)
Click here for job description
For more information about this position, please contact Josh Chudacoff, Principal at chudacoffjoshu@aasd.k12.wi.us
-- An Equal Opportunity Employer --

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