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Principal Data Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Luminant

Principal Data Engineer

Irving, TX · Hybrid

As a Principal Data Engineer, you will be responsible for architecting, designing, and implementing scalable and robust data solutions that enable efficient data processing, storage, and retrieval.

American Tower

Principal, Data Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site

$170K - $213K/yr

The Team We are seeking a Principal Data Engineer to join American Tower's Information Technology organization's Data & Analytics team. The team architects, builds, and optimizes cloud-native data ...

Vistra Energy

Principal Data Engineer

Irving, TX · Hybrid

As a Principal Data Engineer, you will be responsible for architecting, designing, and implementing scalable and robust data solutions that enable efficient data processing, storage, and retrieval.

TXU Energy

Principal Data Engineer

Irving, TX · Hybrid

As a Principal Data Engineer, you will be responsible for architecting, designing, and implementing scalable and robust data solutions that enable efficient data processing, storage, and retrieval.

SS&C Technologies

Principal Data Engineer

Waltham, MA · On-site

Principal Data Engineer Locations: Waltham, MA - Hybrid About the Role We are seeking a highly skilled and hands-on Principal Data Engineer to lead the design, and development of scalable real-time ...

Genworth

Principal Data Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$120K - $195K/yr

POSITION TITLE Principal Data Engineer POSITION LOCATION This position is available to Virginia residents as Richmond or Lynchburg, VA Hybrid in-office applicants or remote applicants residing in ...

Hearst

Principal Data Engineer

New York, NY

The Principal Data Engineer will lead the end-to-end design and implementation of scalable pipelines,platforms and systems that support semantic search across massive volumes of structured/semi ...

Hearst

Principal Data Engineer

Manhattan, NY

The Principal Data Engineer will lead the end-to-end design and implementation of scalable pipelines,platforms and systems that support semantic search across massive volumes of structured/semi ...

Hearst

Principal Data Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

The Principal Data Engineer will lead the end-to-end design and implementation of scalable pipelines,platforms and systems that support semantic search across massive volumes of structured/semi ...

Genworth Financial

Principal Data Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site +1

POSITION TITLE Principal Data Engineer POSITION LOCATION This position is available to Virginia residents as Richmond or Lynchburg, VA Hybrid in-office applicants or remote applicants residing in ...

Hearst

Principal Data Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

The Principal Data Engineer will lead the end-to-end design and implementation of scalable pipelines,platforms and systems that support semantic search across massive volumes of structured/semi ...

Hearst

Principal Data Engineer

Manhattan, NY

The Principal Data Engineer will lead the end-to-end design and implementation of scalable pipelines,platforms and systems that support semantic search across massive volumes of structured/semi ...

Waters Corporation

Principal Data Engineer

Milford, MA · On-site

As a Principal Data Engineer , you will be a senior technical contributor who partners closely with data, analytics, and product teams. You will bring deep technical expertise, operate with a high ...

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$74K

$147.2K

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How much do principal data engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal data engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 200K as a Data Engineer?

Principal Data Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in cloud platforms, and expertise in big data tools can earn salaries around or above $200,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or senior roles. Compensation varies based on location, industry, company size, and individual qualifications, with some senior data engineers earning close to or exceeding this figure.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Principal Data Engineer?

As a Principal Data Engineer, your day-to-day responsibilities generally include designing and optimizing large-scale data pipelines, developing architectural strategies, and overseeing the implementation of robust data solutions. You'll collaborate closely with data scientists, analysts, and software engineers to ensure the organization's data infrastructure is efficient, scalable, and secure. You may also mentor junior team members, review code, and set data engineering best practices. This role frequently requires balancing hands-on technical work with strategic planning and stakeholder communication to align data initiatives with business goals.

What is a Principal Data Engineer job?

A Principal Data Engineer is a senior-level technical role responsible for designing, building, and maintaining large-scale data infrastructure. They lead data engineering teams, establish best practices, and ensure efficient data pipelines to support analytics and machine learning. This role involves working with cloud platforms, big data technologies, and distributed systems to optimize data processing. Principal Data Engineers collaborate with data scientists, analysts, and business stakeholders to drive data-driven decision-making. Their work is critical in enabling organizations to leverage data effectively for insights and innovation.

What engineers make 300,000 a year?

Principal Data Engineers and senior engineering roles in fields like software, cloud, and machine learning often have salaries reaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Compensation can include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What does a principal Data Engineer do?

A principal Data Engineer designs, develops, and maintains large-scale data systems and pipelines to support data analysis and business decision-making. They often lead data architecture initiatives, ensure data quality and security, and collaborate with data scientists and engineers using tools like SQL, Spark, and cloud platforms. This role typically requires extensive experience in data engineering and strong problem-solving skills.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Principal Data Engineers or senior engineering roles in high-demand industries can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in data architecture, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation at this level often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, typically found in large tech companies or organizations with significant data infrastructure needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Principal Data Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Data Engineer, you need a deep understanding of data architecture, data modeling, ETL development, and distributed computing, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, Python, SQL, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud), as well as certifications in relevant tools or data engineering, is highly valuable. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and effective cross-functional communication are essential soft skills for this role. These combined abilities enable Principal Data Engineers to design scalable data solutions, drive engineering best practices, and lead complex projects to successful completion.

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What cities are hiring for Principal Data Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Principal Data Engineer job openings:
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Principal Data Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Data Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.
Principal Data Engineer

Principal Data Engineer

Luminant

Irving, TX • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

If you have what it takes to become part of the Vistra family and would like to start a promising career with a global leader, take a look at the exciting employment opportunities that are currently available and apply online.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Data Engineer to join our team. As a Principal Data Engineer, you will be responsible for architecting, designing, and implementing scalable and robust data solutions that enable efficient data processing, storage, and retrieval. You will provide technical leadership, drive innovation, and ensure the integrity and reliability of our data infrastructure. This is a senior-level position that requires exceptional technical expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a proven track record of successfully delivering complex data engineering projects.

Job Description

Key Accountabilities

  • Lead the design and development of scalable and reliable data pipelines, including data ingestion, processing, storage, and retrieval.
  • Develop data models and schemas that support efficient data storage, retrieval, and analytics, employing optimization techniques to enhance query performance and scalability.
  • Leverage big data technologies and frameworks (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, Hive) to process and analyze large volumes of data, enabling advanced analytics and machine learning initiatives.
  • Manage and optimize data infrastructure, including cloud-based platforms, containerization technologies, and distributed computing environments.
  • Work closely with other teams, including Data Science, Analytics, and Product, to understand their data needs and requirements.
  • Develop and implement best practices for data modeling, storage, and retrieval.
  • Ensure the security and privacy of our data and compliance with relevant regulations.
  • Develop and maintain documentation for all data processes and systems.
  • Evaluate new technologies and tools for data processing, storage, and retrieval and recommend solutions to improve the efficiency and scalability of our data infrastructure.
  • Propose and lead continuous improvement opportunities.
  • Mentor team members to develop their technical and leadership skills.

Education, Experience, & Skill Requirements

  • 9-11 years of experience in data engineering, including experience in designing and building data pipelines
  • Strong proficiency in data engineering technologies, such as ETL frameworks, big data processing, and SQL and NoSQL databases.
  • Deep understanding of database systems, data modeling, and data warehousing.
  • Experience with cloud-based data storage and processing technologies, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Key Metrics

  • Understanding of data privacy and data governance policies.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to lead and manage projects.
  • Experience in leading a team of data engineers and managing complex projects.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
  • Experience with agile software development methodologies.

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-ND1

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Job Family

Data Analytics

Company

Vistra Corporate Services Company

Locations

Irving, TexasTexas
We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding Customer Expectations, Great People, Teamwork, Competitive Spirit and Effective Communication. If this describes you, then apply today!
If you currently work for Vistra or its subsidiaries, please apply via the internal career site.

It is the policy of the Company to comply with all employment laws and to afford equal employment opportunity to individuals in all aspects of employment, including in selection for job opportunities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service, protected veteran status, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance submitting an application or would like to request an accommodation, please email usatassistance@vistraenergy.comtomake a request.

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