▼22%
$137,692
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$116k
MEDIAN
$138k
90%
$169k
The average salary for a Principal Scientist is $137,692 in 2025
Base Salary
$116k - $169k
Bonus
$5k - $26k
Profit Sharing
$4k - $15k
Total Pay
$121k - $187k
Is Average Experienced Principal Scientist with People Management Skills 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?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Scientist
Medical
96%
Dental
96%
Vision
92%
None
4%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Scientists
Female
64.7%
Male
35.3%
This data is based on 17 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 $169k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Scientist is $116k / 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.