Principal Scientist Jobs in California
Principal Scientist jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, semiconductor research, and climate and energy sciences, with demand at every level from early-career researchers to senior principal scientists directing large programs. The San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles are the dominant hiring metros, home to anchor employers such as Genentech, Amgen, and Broadcom. The most in-demand specialties are drug discovery, genomics, materials science, and computational research. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 130+ Principal Scientist jobs
If you are looking for a challenging and exciting career in the world of technology, then look no further. Skyworks is an innovator of high-performance analog semiconductors whose solutions are powering the wireless networking revolution. Through our broad technology expertise and one of the most extensive product portfolios in the industry, we are Connecting Everyone and Everything, All the Time.
At Skyworks, you will find a fast-paced environment with a strong focus on global collaboration, minimal layers of management, and the freedom to make meaningful contributions in a setting that encourages creative thinking. We are excited about the opportunity to work with you and glad you want to be part of a team of talented individuals who together are changing the way the world communicates.
Requisition ID: 78473
Description
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Data Scientist to join our team and drive data-driven decision making across engineering, operations, and business functions. In this role, you will leverage advanced analytics, machine learning, statistical modeling, and large-scale data processing to transform complex datasets into actionable insights that improve products, processes, and business outcomes.
The ideal candidate is passionate about solving challenging problems, working with diverse data sources, and partnering with cross-functional stakeholders to deliver innovative analytical solutions. You will play a key role in designing and implementing scalable data science solutions, developing predictive models, and communicating insights that influence strategic and operational decisions.
Responsibilities
Lead end-to-end data science initiatives from problem definition through deployment, adoption, and value measurement. Develop machine learning, statistical, optimization, and AI solutions for complex engineering and business challenges. Analyze large-scale structured and unstructured data to generate actionable insights and recommendations. Design experiments, predictive models, forecasting systems, and anomaly-detection solutions. Build scalable data pipelines, automated workflows, analytical tools, and reusable data products. Create dashboards and visualizations that enable timely, data-driven decisions. Communicate technical findings and strategic recommendations to stakeholders and leadership.
Required Experience and Skills
Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, Operations Research, or a related field.
8+ years of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, Analytics, or a related field.
Solid understanding of statistics, experimental design, hypothesis testing, and predictive modeling.
Proven track record of delivering data-driven solutions that generated measurable business impact.
Experience developing, validating, and deploying machine learning and statistical models, including Regression, Classification, Clustering, Forecasting, Anomaly Detection.
Experience working with large-scale structured and unstructured datasets.
Experience extracting, transforming, integrating, and analyzing data from multiple disparate sources.
Experience collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders to translate business requirements into analytical solutions.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ability to influence decision-making through data insights and recommendations.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
Desired Experience and Skills
Preference for Master's degree or PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, Operations Research, or a related field.
Experience leading end-to-end data science projects from problem definition through deployment and business adoption.
Experience defining analytics strategy and influencing organizational direction.
Experience mentoring junior data scientists, analysts, or engineers.
Experience in semiconductor, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, product, or engineering analytics.
Experience applying analytics to Yield improvement, Process optimization, Quality improvement, Forecasting, Capacity planning, Root-cause analysis, Anomaly detection.
Experience with cloud and big data platforms such as Azure, AWS, Databricks, or Spark.
Experience with Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), and AI-assisted analytics solutions.
Expertise in deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.
Knowledge of optimization methods, causal inference, advanced forecasting techniques, or reinforcement learning.
#LI-JR1
The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is currently USD $135,900 - $295,000 per year. Starting base pay will depend on relevant experience and skills, training and education, business needs, market demands, the ultimate job duties and requirements, and work location. Skyworks has different base pay ranges for different work locations in the U.S. Benefits include access to healthcare benefits (including a premium-free medical plan option), a 401(k) plan and company match, an employee stock purchase plan, paid time off (including vacation, sick/wellness, parental leave), among others. Employees are eligible to participate in an incentive plan, and certain roles are also eligible for additional awards, including recognition and stock. These incentives and awards are based on individual and/or company performance.
Skyworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Skyworks strives to create an accessible workplace; if you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@skyworksinc.com.
If you are looking for a challenging and exciting career in the world of technology, then look no further. Skyworks is an innovator of high-performance analog semiconductors whose solutions are powering the wireless networking revolution. Through our broad technology expertise and one of the most extensive product portfolios in the industry, we are Connecting Everyone and Everything, All the Time.
At Skyworks, you will find a fast-paced environment with a strong focus on global collaboration, minimal layers of management, and the freedom to make meaningful contributions in a setting that encourages creative thinking. We are excited about the opportunity to work with you and glad you want to be part of a team of talented individuals who together are changing the way the world communicates.
Requisition ID: 78473
Description
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Data Scientist to join our team and drive data-driven decision making across engineering, operations, and business functions. In this role, you will leverage advanced analytics, machine learning, statistical modeling, and large-scale data processing to transform complex datasets into actionable insights that improve products, processes, and business outcomes.
The ideal candidate is passionate about solving challenging problems, working with diverse data sources, and partnering with cross-functional stakeholders to deliver innovative analytical solutions. You will play a key role in designing and implementing scalable data science solutions, developing predictive models, and communicating insights that influence strategic and operational decisions.
Responsibilities
Lead end-to-end data science initiatives from problem definition through deployment, adoption, and value measurement. Develop machine learning, statistical, optimization, and AI solutions for complex engineering and business challenges. Analyze large-scale structured and unstructured data to generate actionable insights and recommendations. Design experiments, predictive models, forecasting systems, and anomaly-detection solutions. Build scalable data pipelines, automated workflows, analytical tools, and reusable data products. Create dashboards and visualizations that enable timely, data-driven decisions. Communicate technical findings and strategic recommendations to stakeholders and leadership.
Required Experience and Skills
Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, Operations Research, or a related field.
8+ years of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, Analytics, or a related field.
Solid understanding of statistics, experimental design, hypothesis testing, and predictive modeling.
Proven track record of delivering data-driven solutions that generated measurable business impact.
Experience developing, validating, and deploying machine learning and statistical models, including Regression, Classification, Clustering, Forecasting, Anomaly Detection.
Experience working with large-scale structured and unstructured datasets.
Experience extracting, transforming, integrating, and analyzing data from multiple disparate sources.
Experience collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders to translate business requirements into analytical solutions.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ability to influence decision-making through data insights and recommendations.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
Desired Experience and Skills
Preference for Master's degree or PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, Operations Research, or a related field.
Experience leading end-to-end data science projects from problem definition through deployment and business adoption.
Experience defining analytics strategy and influencing organizational direction.
Experience mentoring junior data scientists, analysts, or engineers.
Experience in semiconductor, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, product, or engineering analytics.
Experience applying analytics to Yield improvement, Process optimization, Quality improvement, Forecasting, Capacity planning, Root-cause analysis, Anomaly detection.
Experience with cloud and big data platforms such as Azure, AWS, Databricks, or Spark.
Experience with Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), and AI-assisted analytics solutions.
Expertise in deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.
Knowledge of optimization methods, causal inference, advanced forecasting techniques, or reinforcement learning.
#LI-JR1
The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is currently USD $135,900 - $295,000 per year. Starting base pay will depend on relevant experience and skills, training and education, business needs, market demands, the ultimate job duties and requirements, and work location. Skyworks has different base pay ranges for different work locations in the U.S. Benefits include access to healthcare benefits (including a premium-free medical plan option), a 401(k) plan and company match, an employee stock purchase plan, paid time off (including vacation, sick/wellness, parental leave), among others. Employees are eligible to participate in an incentive plan, and certain roles are also eligible for additional awards, including recognition and stock. These incentives and awards are based on individual and/or company performance.
Skyworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Skyworks strives to create an accessible workplace; if you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@skyworksinc.com.
See All 130+ Principal Scientist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Principal Scientist JobsPrincipal Scientist Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Principal Scientist Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Genentech16
- Amazon10
- Intuit7
- Amgen6
- AbbVie4
Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software12
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals10
- Healthcare & Medical Services4
- Medical Devices3
- Science & Research3
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in principal scientist jobs across California.
- Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline such as biology, chemistry, or materials science
- Seven or more years of postdoctoral or industry research experience in a related field
- Demonstrated track of peer-reviewed publications or patented innovations in a core discipline
- Proficiency in California-relevant regulatory frameworks such as FDA IND or EMA drug development guidelines
- Experience leading cross-functional research teams and mentoring junior scientists
- Proficiency with laboratory information management systems and computational data analysis platforms
Principal Scientist Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a principal scientist in California?
Most principal scientists in California hold a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline and complete one or more postdoctoral fellowships before entering industry. California does not issue a state license specifically for principal scientists, but roles in clinical diagnostics or laboratory medicine may require a California Department of Public Health laboratory director or scientist certification. Major California employers typically require a strong publication record or equivalent industry research contributions before promoting or hiring into a principal scientist title.
Which companies hire principal scientists in California?
Employers hiring principal scientists in California right now include Genentech, Amazon, and Intuit, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's concentration of biotechnology headquarters, semiconductor firms, and national research laboratories makes it one of the deepest markets in the country for this role.
Which California cities have the most principal scientist jobs?
San Francisco, San Diego, and Mountain View have the most principal scientist openings in California. The San Francisco Bay Area's density of biotechnology and semiconductor headquarters drives the largest share of listings, while San Diego's pharmaceutical and genomics cluster and Los Angeles's aerospace and climate-science institutions account for a significant portion of the remaining demand.
Are there remote principal scientist jobs in California?
Yes, but they're less common than in purely desk-based roles because principal scientists often need direct access to laboratory equipment, reagents, or specialized instruments. About 30% of principal scientist openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026. The portions of the role most amenable to remote work include data analysis, grant writing, regulatory documentation, and cross-functional collaboration with commercial or clinical teams.
How can I get hired as a principal scientist in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through a postdoctoral research position at a University of California campus such as UC San Francisco, UC San Diego, or UCLA, or at a California national laboratory such as Lawrence Berkeley or SLAC. From there, many researchers transition into associate or staff scientist roles at Bay Area or San Diego biotechnology companies before advancing to principal scientist. Building a publication record, contributing to patent applications, or completing a professional development program run by a California biotech accelerator can accelerate that timeline considerably.
Where can I find and apply to principal scientist jobs in California?
You can find and apply to principal scientist jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly through each listing.
See All 130+ Principal Scientist Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Principal Scientist Jobs