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Principal Database Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MKS2 Technologies

Database Engineer - Cleared

Aurora, CO · On-site

$175K - $180K/yr

Principal Database Administrator Location: Aurora, CO (Buckley AFB - Onsite) Clearance: TS/SCI w ... Collaborate with system engineers and integration teams * Maintain and update database schemas and ...

Ford

Principal Cloud Database Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

We are seeking a Principal Cloud Database Engineer (GCP & AI) to drive architecture, engineering, and innovation across enterprise-scale database platforms. This role will lead modernization efforts ...

MKS2 Technologies

Database Engineer - Cleared

Aurora, CO · On-site

$175K - $180K/yr

... Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security and well-being of our clients. Our ... Principal Database Administrator Location: Aurora, CO (Buckley AFB - Onsite) Clearance: TS/SCI w ...

MKS2

Database Engineer - Cleared

Aurora, CO · On-site

$175K - $180K/yr

... Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security and well-being of our clients. Our ... Principal Database Administrator Location: Aurora, CO (Buckley AFB - Onsite) Clearance: TS/SCI w ...

MKS2 Technologies

Database Engineer - Cleared

Aurora, CO

$175K - $180K/yr

... Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security and well-being of our clients. Our ... Principal Database Administrator Location: Aurora, CO (Buckley AFB - Onsite) Clearance: TS/SCI w ...

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How much do principal database engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal database engineer in the United States is $138,529.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,500.00 and $154,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal database engineer?

A Principal Database Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex database systems within an organization. They provide technical leadership, guide best practices for database architecture, and ensure data integrity, security, and scalability. Principal Database Engineers often mentor other team members, set database standards, and collaborate with stakeholders to align database solutions with business goals. Their expertise is essential for managing large-scale data environments and optimizing performance.

How does a principal database engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams on large-scale projects?

As a Principal Database Engineer, you will frequently collaborate with software developers, data architects, DevOps engineers, and business analysts to design and optimize database solutions. Your role often involves leading technical discussions, setting database standards, and ensuring best practices are followed throughout the project lifecycle. You'll also mentor junior team members and participate in code reviews, while acting as the main point of contact for complex database-related issues. This collaborative approach ensures that database architectures are aligned with both technical requirements and business goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal database engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Database Engineer, you need deep expertise in database architecture, advanced SQL, performance tuning, and a strong background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with major database platforms (such as Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, or SQL Server), cloud technologies, and relevant certifications like AWS Certified Database - Specialty are typically required. Leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure robust, scalable database solutions that support business goals and maintain data integrity.
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Principal Database Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Database Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,529 per year, or $66.6 per hour.

Principal/Senior Principal Database Engineer (TS/SCI Clearance)

SHLD, Inc.

Herndon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

*****MUST HAVE TS/SCI WITH ABILITY TO OBTAIN A CI POLY CLEARANCE*****

For Principal Level:
Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience OR a Master's degree with 3+ years of relevant experience OR A PhD with no experience; an additional 4 years of experience maybe considered in lieu of a degree requirement.
For Senior Principal Level:
Bachelor's degree with 9+ years of relevant experience OR a Master's degree with 7+ years of relevant experience OR A PhD with 41+ years of relevant experience; an additional 4 years of experience maybe considered in lieu of a degree requirement.
The selected candidate will work within a Production Operations team supporting data management processes, database engineering and management, deploying, maintaining, tuning, and enhancing database systems
Job Duties:
Database engineering and management activities associated with high volume, multi-format data management services
Maintains large-scale data management solutions including developing efficient storage, indexing, and access approaches
Updates data enterprise architecture models (if needed) and data abstraction layer to enable access to new data sources
Designs and implements indexing strategies for ingested data.
Developing a strategy for continuous performance tuning of databases
Basic Qualifications:
Experience with Postgres, SQL, and database performance tuning
Experience installing application software in an operational environment
Experience with Agile, AWS, RDBMS technology, Elasticsearch, Linux
DoD IAT Level II certification
Active TS/SCI with ability to obtain a poly
Preferred Qualifications:
Familiarity with NoSQL technology (Hadoop and/or EMR)
Familiarity with Graph database technology
Data modeling experience


Shld, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

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