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.
$190K - $260K *
Transform radar systems through strategic leadership, ensuring technical excellence and alignment with mission needs while fostering long-term growth and customer engagement in a dynamic environment...
Yesterday
$95K - $115K *
Elevate your career by joining a dynamic team focused on New Product Introduction (NPI) and technology transfer. As a Subject Matter Expert, you'll lead microbiological initiatives, ensuring complianc...
Today
Applications Scientist, Metabolomics
$88K - $141K *
Empower academic and pharmaceutical research by providing expert support in metabolomics and lipidomics applications, utilizing advanced LC-MS/MS technology to enhance customer experience and drive in...
3 days ago
$100K - $146K *
Lead the charge in advancing downstream filtration technologies by partnering with customers and internal teams to solve complex bioprocessing challenges, drive technology adoption, and enhance custom...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $140K *
Lead the charge in overseeing laboratory operations and quality control, mentoring staff, and ensuring compliance with standards for materials testing in remote environments across the Northwest Terri...
3 weeks ago
Project Controls - Engineer III / Lead Engineer - Project Farma
$74K - $113K *
Unlock potential by leading complex project controls in life sciences. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance project performance, manage schedules, and deliver high-quality results while...
3 weeks ago
Project Controls - Engineer III / Lead Engineer - Project Farma
$74K - $113K *
Empower project success by leveraging your expertise in project controls to enhance biomanufacturing initiatives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality project management sol...
3 weeks ago
Project Controls - Engineer III / Lead Engineer - Project Farma
$74K - $113K *
Unlock your potential as a key contributor in project controls, driving biomanufacturing projects through expert scheduling, performance management, and client collaboration. Elevate your career while...
3 weeks ago
Project Controls - Engineer III / Lead Engineer - Project Farma
$74K - $113K *
Lead the charge in delivering high-quality project controls for biomanufacturing projects. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize schedules, manage costs, and enhance performance, ensurin...
3 weeks ago
Project Controls - Engineer III / Lead Engineer - Project Farma
$74K - $113K *
Unlock potential by leading complex project controls in biomanufacturing. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance project performance, manage schedules, and deliver high-quality results whi...
3 weeks ago
Project Controls - Engineer III / Lead Engineer - Project Farma
$74K - $113K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of life sciences by leading complex project controls initiatives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance project delivery, ensuring high-quality execut...
3 weeks ago
$254K - $381K *
Unlock potential by leading the design and modernization of enterprise workflows. Utilize your expertise in AI, ServiceNow, and distributed systems to deliver impactful digital solutions that enhance...
Reposted 6 days ago
$254K - $381K *
Partner with us to lead the design and modernization of enterprise workflow solutions. Utilize your expertise in AI, software engineering, and distributed systems to drive impactful digital transforma...
Reposted 6 days ago
$254K - $381K *
Join a dynamic team to lead the design and implementation of innovative enterprise workflow solutions. Use your extensive expertise in software engineering and architecture to drive the modernization...
Reposted 6 days ago
$254K - $381K *
Transform enterprise workflows by leading the design and modernization of scalable AI-driven solutions. Collaborate across teams to enhance user experience and optimize business processes, while provi...
Reposted 6 days ago
Principal Machine Learning Scientist
$275K - $350K *
Deliver high-impact machine learning systems to enhance strategic decision-making, mentor teams, and evaluate advanced modeling techniques, ensuring ethical standards and robust evaluation frameworks...
Reposted today
$110K - $130K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of AI by developing cutting-edge language technologies. As a Senior Applied Scientist, you'll design and optimize NLP solutions, collaborate with experts, and men...
1 week ago
Director of Analytical Services
$120K - $150K *
Optimize laboratory operations by leading analytical testing, ensuring compliance, and driving modernization initiatives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance efficiency and quality whil...
2 weeks ago
Senior Study Lead, Biopharmaceuticals (GMP)
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in managing complex routine projects within a GMP laboratory, ensuring compliance and high-quality outputs. Collaborate with teams to drive continuous improvement, mentor staff, and al...
Reposted 1 week ago
$88K - $105K *
Lead the development of innovative Consumables products, ensuring successful launches through collaboration and technical expertise. Drive project success by managing supplier relationships and guidin...
3 days ago
Sr Scientist Product Development
$97K - $131K *
Shape the future of petcare by driving innovative product development. Collaborate with a diverse team of experts to execute trials and projects that enhance pet wellness, ensuring quality and sustain...
Today
$93K - $156K *
Transform customer success by leading complex laboratory projects across North America. Engage directly on-site, coordinating teams and vendors to ensure high-quality delivery while adapting to dynami...
1 week ago
$93K - $156K *
Engage in the end-to-end delivery of complex laboratory projects, ensuring high-quality execution and customer satisfaction. Collaborate with teams and stakeholders while adapting to dynamic environme...
1 week ago
$123K - $192K *
Transform the future of rocket propulsion by leading innovative research in metal-powder fuel formulations. Collaborate with a dynamic team to develop cutting-edge materials and drive project manageme...
2 days ago
Scientific Director - Incretin & Peptide Process Chemistry
$153K - $239K *
Shape the future of peptide development by leading innovative projects in synthetic process chemistry. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize sustainable manufacturing processes and drive...
Reposted 3 days 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.