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Secondary School Principal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Middle School Principal

Ortonville, MI · On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Middle School Principal Location: Brandon Middle School Position Summary: The Middle School ... Supervises and evaluates certified secondary staff, ensuring that the proper elements of ...

Middle School Principal

Waterford, MI · On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Middle School Principal Location: Brandon Middle School Position Summary: The Middle School ... Supervises and evaluates certified secondary staff, ensuring that the proper elements of ...

Assistant Principal

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$100K - $117K/yr

Assistant Principal Supervisor Job Title: Principal Employment Status: Full-time FLSA Status ... Interacts with teachers and other staff, and at the secondary school level with department heads ...

Middle School Principal

Camas, WA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Reports to Director of Secondary Education FLSA Status Exempt Schedule Full-time, 260 days per year ... Participate as part of the middle school principal team and take on leadership related to sharing ...

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Secondary School Principal information

See salary details

$34K

$109.6K

$158K

How much do secondary school principal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for secondary school principal in the United States is $109,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,500.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a secondary school principal?

To thrive as a Secondary School Principal, you need strong leadership, educational management experience, and typically a master's degree in education or educational administration along with state certification. Familiarity with school information systems, curriculum planning tools, and data analysis software is often required. Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and organizational skills set outstanding principals apart. These skills are essential to effectively lead staff, foster a positive school culture, and ensure academic success for all students.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by secondary school principals, and how can they effectively address them?

Secondary school principals often face challenges such as balancing administrative duties with instructional leadership, managing diverse staff and student needs, and handling conflict resolution. Effective principals address these by prioritizing clear communication, fostering a collaborative school culture, and delegating responsibilities appropriately. Staying current with educational policies and building strong relationships with teachers, parents, and students also helps principals navigate these challenges while supporting school improvement and student success.

What is the difference between Secondary School Principal vs School Counselor?

AspectSecondary School PrincipalSchool Counselor
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in education, administrative certificationMaster's degree in counseling or psychology, state licensure
Work EnvironmentSchool administration, leadership roles, overseeing staff and policiesStudent support, guidance sessions, mental health counseling
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, educational institutionsSchools, educational organizations, mental health agencies

The primary difference between a Secondary School Principal and a School Counselor lies in their roles and responsibilities. The principal manages school operations, staff, and policies, requiring administrative credentials. In contrast, the counselor focuses on student well-being and academic guidance, requiring counseling-specific qualifications. Both roles are vital in the educational environment but serve distinct functions.

More about Secondary School Principal jobs

What cities are hiring for Secondary School Principal jobs?

Cities with the most Secondary School Principal job openings:

What states have the most Secondary School Principal jobs?

States with the most job openings for Secondary School Principal jobs include:

Infographic showing various Secondary School Principal job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,559 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Secondary Assistant Principal Anticipated for 2026-2027

Upper Adams School District

Biglerville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Upper Adams School District is seeking a dynamic, student-centered Secondary Assistant Principal to support the academic, operational, and extracurricular programs of our secondary school. Reporting directly to the Secondary School Principal, the Assistant Principal serves as an instructional leader and administrator responsible for helping oversee educational programs, student services, personnel, school operations, public relations, co-curricular activities, student health and food services, building maintenance, and school safety. This position plays a critical role in fostering a positive learning environment by supporting curriculum implementation, monitoring student achievement data, developing academic support programs, supervising student attendance and discipline, serving as a member of the district threat assessment team, and assisting with special education processes in accordance with district and state guidelines.

The successful candidate will provide leadership and supervision for instructional and support staff, promote professional growth, support staff development initiatives, and collaborate closely with district administrators to ensure high-quality educational experiences for all students. Additional responsibilities include assisting with building operations, emergency preparedness drills, handbook development, committee participation, extracurricular events, and assuming principal responsibilities when necessary. 

Qualified candidates must possess a Master's Degree, Pennsylvania Principal Certification, a minimum of 57 years of educational experience including at least five years of successful teaching or educational service, and a valid driver's license. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills, along with a commitment to student success and continuous school improvement.
 EOE