▲10%
$99,864
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$69k
MEDIAN
$100k
90%
$124k
The average salary for a Principal Scientist is $99,864 in 2025
Base Salary
$69k - $124k
Bonus
$990 - $18k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $10k
Total Pay
$66k - $133k
Is Average Entry-Level Principal Scientist Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Scientists?
What Do Principal Scientists Do?
Principal Scientist Tasks
- Conduct quantitative and qualitative research to improve existing products or develop new ones.
- Coordinate with other departmental team leads to produce effective business solutions, and provide updates to project managers.
- Provide technical guidance on area of expertise and respond to internal and external queries.
- Monitor staff performance and conduct annual performance reviews.
- Lead a team of researchers, and coordinate work activity and training sessions.
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Scientist
Medical
100%
Dental
90%
Vision
85%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Scientists
Male
60.0%
Female
40.0%
This data is based on 10 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 $124k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Scientist is $69k / 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.