Explore Principal Scientist jobs on Ladders, where professionals can find vetted opportunities paying $100,000 or more. Principal Scientists lead complex research, guide scientific strategy, and turn deep technical expertise into discoveries, products, and business impact.
Principal Scientists provide senior-level scientific direction within organizations such as biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, technology firms, manufacturers, and research institutions. They design and oversee research programs, interpret complex data, develop new methods, and communicate findings to technical and executive stakeholders. Depending on the organization, they may also mentor scientists, manage collaborations, and help set long-term research priorities.
Employers typically seek extensive experience in a relevant scientific discipline, a strong record of research or technical achievement, and the ability to lead projects across teams. Commonly valued skills include experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, subject-matter expertise, project leadership, and clear communication. Many positions require a Ph.D. or other advanced degree, though requirements vary by field and employer.
Compensation varies based on specialty, experience, location, and employer. Ladders focuses on vetted professional opportunities paying at least $100,000, making it a useful place to explore senior-level Principal Scientist roles. Career paths may lead to scientific leadership, research director, vice president of research, or other executive and technical leadership positions.
Search Principal Scientist openings by specialty, location, and other preferences to identify roles aligned with your experience. Review each listing for its responsibilities, qualifications, and compensation details, then apply directly to opportunities that match your career goals.
Scientist II, Molecular Biology
$72K - $96K *
Elevate research capabilities by developing next-gen sequencing technologies and diagnostic assays. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive product development from concept to commercializati...
4 weeks ago
$80K - $95K *
Transform laboratory practices by leveraging your expertise in cytogenetics. Lead complex analyses, train staff, and enhance procedures while ensuring accurate results in a collaborative environment f...
3 days ago
Scientific Computer Engineer, Staff Cloud Infrastructure
$164K - $205K *
Unlock potential by designing and enhancing cloud infrastructure for scientific computing, ensuring reliability and performance while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable solu...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join a dynamic team to drive business growth in materials and corrosion engineering. Leverage your expertise to analyze safety and performance issues while mentoring a motivated group. Collaborate in...
1 week ago
Scientist II / Senior Scientist, Electron Diffraction Characterization
$128K - $198K *
Drive the development and validation of electron diffraction characterization workflows, translating complex data into structured outputs to enhance materials discovery and collaboration with cross-fu...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Sr Research Scientist, Nutritional Functional Bars
$110K - $130K *
Lead innovative product development for nutritional bars from concept to commercialization, collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet quality, safety, and consumer expectations while mentoring...
3 weeks ago
$123K - $235K *
Empower the future of bioprocessing by leading product management for the OPUS® portfolio. Drive strategy, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration to enhance customer experience and achieve bus...
4 weeks ago
$100K *
Elevate your career by leading impactful research initiatives, collaborating with diverse teams, and mentoring emerging scientists. Drive innovative studies that enhance understanding of Latino popula...
1 week ago
Principal Scientist - Computational Sciences
$156K - $190K *
Unlock potential by leading innovative computational strategies in drug design. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to advance small molecule discovery through cutting-edge cheminformatics and ma...
Reposted 5 days ago
Principal Administrative Coordinator
$71K - $104K *
Join a team that's dedicated to providing high-level support to the Executive Director & General Counsel. Collaborate across departments to enhance strategic initiatives and ensure effective communica...
Today
$110K - $130K *
Oversee advanced mass spectrometry operations, lead research initiatives, and enhance scientific collaboration. Drive innovation in proteomics and molecular analysis while ensuring compliance with qua...
1 week ago
$180K - $275K *
Drive your career forward by leading a dynamic team in construction consulting, focusing on utilities, energy, and infrastructure projects. Expand client relationships and business opportunities while...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Join our team to expand our asbestos and industrial hygiene practice, overseeing inspections and remediation projects. Collaborate with experts, mentor junior staff, and ensure quality standards while...
1 week ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead technical services projects in mineral processing, driving innovation and optimization. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to enhance operational efficiency and deliver high-quality results...
3 weeks ago
$120K - $145K *
Partner with us to lead technical services projects in mineral processing, leveraging your extensive experience and analytical skills to drive innovation and optimize operations while collaborating wi...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Transform your career by leading technical services projects in mineral processing. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, utilizing your expertise to optimize processing plants and deliver high-qu...
3 weeks ago
Lead Principal Program Manager
$114K - $234K *
Transform your career by leading cross-functional analytics programs that drive strategic business insights and measurable outcomes. Shape the analytics agenda, connect data across functions, and infl...
2 days ago
Principal Clinical Scientist, Clinical Development - Hematology
$168K - $199K *
Shape the future of clinical development by driving scientific strategy and oversight in Hematology programs. Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure compliance, quality, and patient safety in clinic...
1 week ago
$115K - $175K *
Unlock potential by leading complex engineering projects, ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence while collaborating with diverse teams to mitigate risks and maintain stakeholder relationships...
Reposted 1 week ago
$111K - $160K *
Lead the charge in advancing battery technology as a Senior Electrolyte Scientist. Drive critical projects, innovate polymer electrolyte materials, and collaborate across teams to enhance cell perform...
Yesterday
Sr Staff Program Manager, MES Custom Software Development Transformation
$233K - $271K *
Lead the charge in transforming our Manufacturing Execution System (MES) by driving strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and hands-on execution to modernize technology and enhance opera...
3 weeks ago
$165K - $180K *
Lead innovative initiatives to enhance safe abortion and contraception care globally. Collaborate with diverse teams to develop technical tools, advocate for reproductive health rights, and improve qu...
6 days ago
$88K - $105K *
Partner with us to lead complex projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with stakeholders. Utilize your expertise in project management to drive successful outcomes and foster strong client r...
1 week ago
Scientist, Stem Cell Engineering
$80K - $95K *
Join a dynamic team to innovate avian embryonic stem cell protocols, focusing on culture, genome editing, and embryo reintroduction using advanced technologies. Collaborate closely with lab members to...
Yesterday
Process Development Senior Scientist
$126K - $170K *
Reimagine drug product development by leveraging your expertise in biologics formulation and process engineering. Collaborate across teams to innovate and deliver high-quality, stable drug products fo...
2 weeks ago
What does a Principal Scientist do?
A Principal Scientist leads advanced research or technical programs, sets scientific direction, analyzes results, and shares findings with stakeholders. Responsibilities may also include mentoring colleagues and coordinating cross-functional teams.
What qualifications are commonly required for Principal Scientist jobs?
Requirements vary by specialty, but employers often look for extensive relevant experience, a strong record of scientific or technical work, and advanced expertise. Many roles require a Ph.D. or another advanced degree, along with research leadership and communication skills.
How much do Principal Scientists earn?
Pay depends on factors such as field, location, experience, and employer. Ladders features vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more; check individual listings for compensation information.
Where do Principal Scientists work?
Principal Scientists work across industries including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and academic or independent research.
How can I find Principal Scientist jobs on Ladders?
Browse Principal Scientist listings on Ladders and use available search filters to narrow opportunities by location, specialty, or other preferences. Review each listing for its requirements and compensation details.