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Principal Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mini-Circuits

Principal Design Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$199K - $215K/yr

The Principal Design Engineer - MMIC is responsible for developing new MMIC products as defined by Marketing Strategists. He/she will be involved in all phases of the product development, from ...

Mini-Circuits

Principal Design Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$199K - $215K/yr

The Principal Design Engineer - MMIC is responsible for developing new MMIC products as defined by Marketing Strategists. He/she will be involved in all phases of the product development, from ...

AlphaSense

Principal Design Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

We are seeking a Principal Design Engineer to play a key role in shaping the future of AlphaSense's product experience. This is a senior individual contributor role, where you'll lead through craft ...

Crusoe

Principal Design Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

We are seeking a Principal Design Engineer to own the full-lifecycle engineering design of our "Spark" modular data center (MDC) product line. You will be the technical authority across electrical ...

Crusoe

Principal Design Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

We are seeking a Principal Design Engineer to own the full-lifecycle engineering design of our "Spark" modular data center (MDC) product line. You will be the technical authority across electrical ...

AlphaSense

Principal Design Engineer

New York, NY · On-site +1

We are seeking a Principal Design Engineer to play a key role in shaping the future of AlphaSense's product experience. This is a senior individual contributor role, where you'll lead through craft ...

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All JobsPrincipal Design Engineer Jobs

Principal Design Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal design 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.

What does a Principal Design Engineer do?

A Principal Design Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for leading the design and development of complex engineering projects. They oversee the entire design process, from concept to completion, ensuring that technical standards, project requirements, and safety regulations are met. Principal Design Engineers often mentor junior engineers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and provide technical guidance on challenging problems. They play a crucial role in strategic planning, innovation, and maintaining the quality and integrity of engineering solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Design Engineer, you need deep expertise in engineering principles, advanced design methodologies, and a relevant degree such as a BS or MS in engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards or certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) are typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating across departments. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering innovative, high-quality designs and driving project success in complex engineering environments.

How does a Principal Design Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

A Principal Design Engineer plays a pivotal role in bridging communication between engineering, product management, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. Throughout a project, they lead technical discussions, facilitate design reviews, and ensure design intent aligns with overall project goals. Their expertise is often called upon to resolve complex technical challenges and mentor junior engineers, ensuring that cross-functional efforts remain cohesive and efficient. This collaborative approach helps streamline project timelines and results in robust, manufacturable designs.

What engineers make $500,000?

Principal Design Engineers, especially in high-demand industries like technology, aerospace, and semiconductor manufacturing, can earn $500,000 or more annually with experience, bonuses, and stock options. Senior engineers with specialized skills in areas such as hardware design, systems architecture, or product development are more likely to reach this compensation level.

What is the difference between Principal Design Engineer vs Senior Design Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Design EngineerSenior Design Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, extensive experienceBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, several years of experience
Work EnvironmentLeads design projects, mentors teams, collaborates with stakeholdersDevelops designs, supports project execution, collaborates with teams
Industry UsageUsed across engineering sectors for senior technical leadershipCommonly used for experienced engineers executing design tasks

The Principal Design Engineer typically holds a higher level of responsibility, providing technical leadership and strategic input, while the Senior Design Engineer focuses on executing design tasks and supporting project development. Both roles require strong engineering credentials, but the Principal role emphasizes leadership and innovation.

What is the role of a principal design engineer?

A principal design engineer leads the development and design of complex products or systems, providing technical expertise and strategic direction. They often oversee project teams, ensure design quality, and collaborate with cross-functional departments using CAD tools and engineering standards.

Is EEe a high paying job?

Principal Design Engineers typically earn high salaries due to their advanced technical skills, experience, and leadership responsibilities in engineering projects. Compensation varies by industry, location, and company size, but it generally exceeds average engineering salaries and may include bonuses and stock options.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Design Engineers, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, software, or semiconductor manufacturing, can earn $300,000 or more annually with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership responsibilities. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise, with senior roles frequently including bonuses and stock options.
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Principal Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.
Principal Design Engineer

Principal Design Engineer

CIRCOR International, Inc.

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Circor rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

POSITION DETAILS
Position Summary
Designs specialized fluid control components using computer aided design and drafting (CADD) tools to meet customer requests; and collaborates as necessary to generate details, assembly drawings, models, bills of materials (BOM), design analysis, reports, and procedures. This position requires interactions with the assigned designers, suppliers, and other applicable (production, sales, quality, et cetera) departmental assignees to solicit technical information as well as production capabilities to develop feasible design solutions. Hands-on participation in the test laboratory and related design validation as well as product preparation activities, with various service media and pressures, will be required on an as-needed basis.
The Principal Design Engineer participates in the design and evaluation of production processes for both new and existing products and systems to provide improvements in cost, performance or the facilitation of manufacturing processes using the fundamental principles of mechanical, electrical, industrial, and other engineering disciplines.
Principal Activities
  • Works with Sales and Engineering management to develop the technical specifications for fluid control devices.
  • Reviews customer Requests for Quote and specifications to develop preliminary design concepts.
  • Provides design layout and proposal drawing and models or sufficient data for a designer to layout.
  • Provides technical guidance for the preparations of technical proposals.
  • Checks outputs from Designers.
  • Prepares stress, strain, fluid, thermal, and other engineering calculations as required by assignments.
  • Performs at least basic Finite Element Analysis and Computerized Fluid Dynamics analyses as required by assignments.
  • Performs preliminary analytical and/or experimental tasks as necessary to demonstrate soundness of conceptual design.
  • Follows through on experimental designs to correct design deficiencies and make improvements.
  • Investigates production problems when called upon and searches for solutions; advises and assists other department members on design issues.
  • Completes forms and relevant documentation within the Engineering department for procurement, fabrication and testing.
  • Collaborates with Designers or be able to perform all their activities.
  • Generates applicable test and assembly procedures and reports for design verification and manufacturing.
  • Initiates requests for fabrication of prototypes and order special materials when required, as well as any fixtures and tooling needed.
  • Compiles record of project progress.
  • Collaborate with other functional departments (Manufacturing, Quality, etc) to ensure quality product realization in time.
  • Reviews non-conformance reports and dispositions material in accordance with the Material Review Board process.
  • Prepares and delivers training material to Designers, Design Engineers, Application Engineers, Sales and Customers as needed
  • Other duties and tasks as assigned

Requirements
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Results oriented, with sound judgment.
  • Excellent demonstrated verbal and written communication skills with strong, pro-active communication with management on task or project progress, challenges, solutions, and requests for support.
  • Excellent demonstrated analytical, critical thinking, and strategic skills.
  • Interpersonal skills and project leadership skills
  • Ability to manage changes during design phase.
  • Resourceful and well organized.
  • Ability to effectively work in a cross-functional team. Microsoft Office - Strong with Word and Excel.
  • MathCAD or Equivalent Engineering Software Tool.
  • 3D Modeling (Solidworks) a plus.
  • LabView software experience a plus but not necessary.
  • ASME B16.5 & B16.34 - Working knowledge.
  • ASME Y14.5 - Familiar.
  • Stress Analysis - Linear (FEA and/or analytical).
  • Seal Design - Working knowledge.
  • Fluid Mechanics - Flow Calculations, CFD basic.
  • Structural Mechanics - Fastening Methods, Torque Design.
  • Machine Elements in Mechanical Design - Strength of Materials, Processing, Finish, et cetera.
  • Heat Transfer.
  • Tolerance Analysis - Assemblies.
  • Technical Writing - Assembly and Test Procedures, Test Reports.
  • Compatibility - Lubricants, Service Media, Materials.
  • Contamination Control - Familiarity.
  • Valve Design Experience a plus.
  • Qualification Process and Testing - Experienced.
  • Knowledge of related standards and codes.
  • Knowledge of solenoid actuators a plus.

Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university. Relevant mechanical design experience preferred such as at least 12+ years in the design of mechanical components or valves.

Other
  • US Citizen

CIRCOR is an EEO Employer of Females / Minorities / Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities
#LI-RM1
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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