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Principal Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

NextDeavor Inc.

Principal Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI

$130K - $160K/yr

Principal Engineer Full-time Kalamazoo, MI, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared with qualified applicants. Benefits You'll Love * Medical coverage including prescription drug benefits

THOMSON REUTERS

Principal Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · Hybrid

Principal Engineer CoCounsel is our most advanced AI offering to date - combining generative and agentic AI capabilities to help legal professionals move beyond prompting and start delegating. As a ...

THOMSON REUTERS

Principal Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will set the technical direction for the backend, AI orchestration, and identity systems that turn frontier models into reliable, secure, production-grade ...

Carhartt

Principal Engineer, eComm

Dearborn, MI · On-site

Principal Engineer, Ecommerce Department: Information Technology Reports to: Sr. Manager, Global Platform Mgmt. & Support Location: Dearborn Job Classification: Remote FLSA Status: Exempt Job Band:

THOMSON REUTERS

Principal Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Principal Engineer CoCounsel is our most advanced AI offering to date - combining generative and agentic AI capabilities to help legal professionals move beyond prompting and start delegating. As a ...

Carhartt

Principal Engineer, eComm

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Principal Engineer, Ecommerce Department: Information Technology Reports to: Sr. Manager, Global Platform Mgmt. & Support Location: Dearborn Job Classification: Remote FLSA Status: Exempt Job Band:

BoehringerPRD

The Senior Principal Engineer, Automation will serve as an Automation Process-specific Subject Matter Expert (SME) for one or more aspects of the aseptic manufacturing process System Integration ...

asrcfh

Principal Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI

ASRC Federal Advanced Research is currently seeking a Systems/Principal Engineer to support autonomy vehicle integrations in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Considering the state of the world today ...

asrcfh

Principal Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI

ASRC Federal Advanced Research is currently seeking a Systems/Principal Engineer to support autonomy vehicle integrations in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Considering the state of the world today ...

Kiongroup

Software Principal Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$143K - $214K/yr

Dematic Corp. has a need for a Software Principal Engineer in our Lifecyle Solutions & Services Modernizations and Upgrades (LSS MU) group. The ideal candidate will have experience working in the ...

Kiongroup

Software Principal Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$143K - $214K/yr

Dematic Corp. has a need for a Software Principal Engineer in our Lifecyle Solutions & Services Modernizations and Upgrades (LSS MU) group. The ideal candidate will have experience working in the ...

Kion Group AG

Software Principal Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$143K - $214K/yr

Dematic Corp. has a need for a Software Principal Engineer in our Lifecyle Solutions & Services Modernizations and Upgrades (LSS MU) group. The ideal candidate will have experience working in the ...

Fabcon Precast

Principal Engineer

Grandville, MI · On-site

Certify engineering work of the office as required, ensuring conformance with established programs and objectives. Provide technical support for internal contacts. Maintain design standards to ensure ...

Fabcon Precast

Principal Engineer

Trenton, MI

Certify engineering work of the office as required, ensuring conformance with established programs and objectives. Provide technical support for internal contacts. Maintain design standards to ensure ...

THOMSON REUTERS

Principal Software Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · Hybrid

$132K - $177K/yr

Principal Software Engineer The global capital markets are among the largest markets in the world valued at $50T+ and growing. Transactions in these markets are complex. Critical, nuanced legal terms ...

HARMAN International

Principal Engineer, AI

Novi, MI · On-site

R-54305-2026 Description & Requirements About the Role As the Principal AI Engineer, you will act as the technical leader for AI solution design, implementation, and operationalization across Harman ...

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All JobsPrincipal Engineer JobsPrincipal Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Principal Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$64.5K

$128.3K

$185.2K

How much do principal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineer in Michigan is $128,316.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,300.00 and $150,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal engineer?

A principal engineer oversees the research, development, and design of engineering projects for a company or organization. These engineering experts are leaders in their industries and need an advanced understanding of their discipline to manage projects and guide team members. As a principal engineer, your job duties include creating budgets, negotiating with vendors, and delegating work. You may also train staff members, set project deadlines, and work to improve engineering application processes.

How does a principal engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

Principal Engineers play a key role in collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as product management, design, and operations, to ensure technical solutions align with business objectives. They often lead architectural discussions, mentor team members, and facilitate communication between engineering and non-engineering stakeholders. This collaboration helps identify potential challenges early, streamline development processes, and deliver high-quality products. Additionally, Principal Engineers are often involved in setting technical standards and guiding teams through complex problem-solving.

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

To thrive as a Principal Engineer, you need deep technical expertise in your engineering discipline, strong problem-solving abilities, and typically an advanced degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with complex software development tools, architectural frameworks, and industry certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or relevant PE licenses is common. Exceptional leadership, communication, and mentorship skills help Principal Engineers guide teams and influence project direction. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring technical excellence, and delivering large-scale, high-impact solutions.

What is the difference between Principal Engineer vs Senior Engineer?

AspectPrincipal EngineerSenior Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires 8+ years of experience, advanced technical skills, and often leadership or mentorship experienceUsually requires 3-7 years of experience with strong technical skills
Work EnvironmentLeads complex projects, influences technical strategy, collaborates across teamsFocuses on executing technical tasks, supporting project development, and mentoring junior staff
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large tech companies, engineering firms, and organizations with advanced technical hierarchiesWidely used across industries for experienced technical contributors

The main difference between a Principal Engineer and a Senior Engineer lies in their level of responsibility, experience, and influence. Principal Engineers typically lead complex projects and shape technical strategies, while Senior Engineers focus on executing technical tasks and supporting team efforts. Both roles require strong technical skills, but Principal Engineers often have more leadership and strategic responsibilities.

How much does a principal engineer get paid?

A principal engineer's salary typically ranges from $120,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often have advanced technical skills, leadership responsibilities, and may receive bonuses or stock options as part of compensation.

What do principal engineers do?

Principal engineers are senior technical leaders responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing complex engineering projects. They provide technical guidance, set standards, and collaborate with teams to ensure the successful implementation of solutions, often using tools like CAD, programming languages, or engineering software. They typically have extensive experience and may mentor junior staff while contributing to strategic planning.
More about Principal Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Engineer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Principal Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Engineer jobs in Michigan?

For Principal Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Principal Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Principal Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Engineer jobs in MI?

For Principal Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Principal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,316 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Principal Engineer

NextDeavor Inc.

Kalamazoo, MI

$130K - $160K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Principal Engineer
Full-time
Kalamazoo, MI, US
Exclusive confidential search — details shared with qualified applicants.
 
Benefits You'll Love
  • Medical coverage including prescription drug benefits
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Voluntary optional life and accident insurance
  • Hospital indemnity and critical illness insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company matching contributions at 100% of the first 5% of pay
  • Company provided defined-contribution retirement plan with annual contribution equal to 3% of pay
  • Bonus opportunity (15%)
  • Career development and tuition reimbursement
  • Paid parental leave
  • Short-term and long-term disability programs
  • Adoption assistance
  • Care.com membership
  • Financial planning assistance
  • Supplemental programs available (identity protection, legal protection, pet wellness)
  • Paid Time Off and up to 15 company-paid holidays
  • Relocation assistance
Become a Key Player as a Principal Engineer

You will lead advanced engineering research and development to deliver new or improved products and processes that affect product, technology, and strategic business outcomes. You will work closely with cross-functional teams and leadership to influence technical decisions and support multiple programs. This is primarily an onsite role in Kalamazoo, MI with occasional domestic and overseas travel.

Here's How You'll Make an Impact on the Team
  • Research and execute complex or innovative engineering assignments to develop new or improved methods, materials, processes, and products
  • Develop and evaluate designs, run analyses and tests, and publish findings to establish performance standards
  • Provide expert technical recommendations on manufacturing/processing techniques, materials, and process limitations
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives and implement engineering technologies and analytic tools
  • Communicate technical proposals and presentations to internal and external stakeholders to influence decisions
  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to integrated product development teams and less-experienced engineers
  • Plan and conduct complex special assignments, review progress, and recommend major procedural changes
Here's What You'll Need to Be Successful in This Role
  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, electronic, systems engineering, or a related technical discipline (MS preferred)
  • Typically 10+ years of related engineering experience
  • Advanced knowledge of mechanical, electronic, and/or optics engineering principles, theories, and industry practices
  • Demonstrated ability to lead technology projects and mentor technical staff
  • Experience with continuous improvement principles and implementation
  • Ability to plan and conduct complex analyses with incomplete data and exercise independent judgment
  • Proficiency with standard business applications and specialized data analysis, design, and project management tools
Here's What Else Might Help You Out
  • Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline
  • Prior experience with aerospace industry regulations and practices
  • Experience presenting technical proposals to senior leadership or external customers
Pay Range

$130k - $160k/year

Ready to Make Your Mark?

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