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Contractual Principal Software Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Software Architect - Ground Systems & Fleet Automation Location: Moriarty, NM or North Bay, CA Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt Reports to: Director of Operations Who Are We: Sceye is a high ...

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

NOIRLab is seeking a visionary Principal Software Architect to lead the architectural strategy and technical evolution of software systems that power world-class astronomical research, observatory ...

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

NOIRLab is seeking a visionary Principal Software Architect to lead the architectural strategy and technical evolution of software systems that power world-class astronomical research, observatory ...

NOIRLab is seeking a visionary Principal Software Architect to lead the architectural strategy and technical evolution of software systems that power world-class astronomical research, observatory ...

As a Principal Software Architect, you will define the technical strategy for AI-powered product experiences and lead a talented team in building reliable AI systems and architectural advancements.

We are looking for a Principal Software Architect to provide technical leadership for next-generation connected fire and life safety software platforms. This role will be responsible for defining ...

Position Summary The Principal Software Architect is responsible for defining and driving the ... In order to ensure L&W complies with its regulatory and contractual commitments, as a condition to ...

Position Summary The Principal Software Architect is responsible for defining and driving the ... In order to ensure L&W complies with its regulatory and contractual commitments, as a condition to ...

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Contractual Principal Software Architect information

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$117K

$191.8K

$274K

How much do contractual principal software architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual principal software architect in the United States is $191,750.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $147,500.00 and $233,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for a software architect?

The highest salaries for a Contractual Principal Software Architect can exceed $200,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a competitive tech market. Senior architects with extensive experience, specialized skills in cloud computing, and certifications like TOGAF or AWS often command top-tier compensation. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and project scope.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A Contractual Principal Software Architect or senior engineering roles with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-paying industries like technology or finance. Compensation at this level often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, and typically requires advanced certifications and a proven track record of delivering complex projects.

What is the highest salary for a principal architect?

The highest salary for a Contractual Principal Software Architect can exceed $200,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or tech hubs, with experienced professionals earning bonuses and stock options. Salaries vary based on location, experience, certifications, and company size, with top-tier roles often offering additional benefits.

What is the difference between Contractual Principal Software Architect vs Contractual Software Engineer?

AspectContractual Principal Software ArchitectContractual Software Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in CS or related fields, extensive experience, and architecture certificationsUsually requires a bachelor's degree in CS or related field, with relevant coding and development experience
Work EnvironmentDesigns overall system architecture, collaborates with stakeholders, and oversees technical standardsFocuses on coding, implementing features, and debugging within projects
Industry UsageCommonly employed in enterprise, consulting, and large-scale projectsWidely used in software development teams across various industries

The Contractual Principal Software Architect focuses on high-level system design and strategic technical leadership, while the Contractual Software Engineer concentrates on coding and implementing software solutions. Both roles are essential but differ significantly in scope and responsibilities.

How much does a principal software architect make in the US?

A principal software architect in the US typically earns between $130,000 and $180,000 annually, with total compensation often including bonuses and stock options. Salaries vary based on experience, industry, location, and company size, and the role requires strong technical leadership and expertise in software design and architecture.
More about Contractual Principal Software Architect jobs
What cities are hiring for Contractual Principal Software Architect jobs? Cities with the most Contractual Principal Software Architect job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Software Architect jobs? The most popular types of Principal Software Architect jobs are:
What states have the most Contractual Principal Software Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Contractual Principal Software Architect jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contractual Principal Software Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $191,750 per year, or $92.2 per hour.
Principal Software Architect

Principal Software Architect

Foundation Software

Strongsville, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Foundation Software rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 245 rated software companies


Job description

Principal Software Architect

Strongsville, OH | Full Time

About the Role

Foundation Software is seeking an experienced Principal Software Architect to lead our software architecture team and provide technical leadership across the engineering organization.

Working closely with the VP of Architecture, you'll help shape the technical direction of our platform, mentor architects and senior engineers, and guide the design of scalable, secure, and maintainable software solutions. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys influencing technical strategy while remaining hands-on through architecture reviews, design sessions, and solving complex engineering challenges.

What You'll Do

  • Lead and mentor the Software Architecture team.
  • Partner with the VP of Architecture on architectural strategy and technology roadmaps.
  • Guide solution architecture across cloud, desktop, APIs, and modernization initiatives.
  • Lead architecture reviews and establish engineering standards and best practices.
  • Mentor architects and senior developers.
  • Promote scalable, secure, cloud-native application design.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies, including AI, to improve our platform and engineering practices.
  • Collaborate with Product, Engineering, QA, Security, Infrastructure, and DevOps to deliver high-quality solutions.

Tech Stack

Backend: .NET, C#, ASP.NET Core, REST APIs, Node.js, Express Frontend: React, Vue.js, TypeScript Cloud: Microsoft Azure (App Services, Functions, SQL, Storage, Redis, Application Insights), AWS and GCP Architecture: Microservices, Clean Architecture, Domain-Driven Design, API-First, Event-Driven Systems Data: SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MongoDB

What We're Looking For

  • 12+ years of software engineering experience with enterprise applications.
  • 5+ years of software architecture experience.
  • Experience leading or mentoring architects and senior engineers.
  • Deep expertise in modern application architecture, cloud technologies, and software design patterns.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and technical leadership skills.
  • Passion for mentoring teams and driving engineering excellence.

Why Foundation?

Join a collaborative engineering culture that values innovation, technical excellence, and work-life balance. We offer outstanding benefits, an award-winning workplace, and the opportunity to influence the future of construction software while working alongside talented engineers.


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