▼23%
$129,808
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$95k
MEDIAN
$130k
90%
$163k
The average salary for a Principal Scientist is $129,808 in 2025
Base Salary
$95k - $163k
Bonus
$3k - $25k
Profit Sharing
$1k - $16k
Commission
$0 - $15k
Total Pay
$96k - $177k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Scientists?
What Do Principal Scientists Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Principal Scientists Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 98 responses, the job of Principal Scientist has received a job satisfaction rating of 3.73 out of 5. On average, Principal Scientists are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Scientist
Medical
92%
Dental
86%
Vision
80%
None
8%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Scientists
Male
64.6%
Female
35.0%
Prefer to self-define
0.4%
This data is based on 277 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Scientists
What is the highest pay for Principal Scientists?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Scientist is $163k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Scientist is $95k / year
How can Principal Scientists increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Scientist is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Principal Scientist that oversees more junior Principal Scientists, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.