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Principal Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Principal AI Engineer is the most senior individual contributor and technical lead for Surescripts' AI solutions. The role owns the how, the execution, and the by-when for AI initiatives across ...

Principal Electrical Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$142K - $174K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Electrical Systems Engineer to join our Herndon, VA team and lead the development of advanced electro-optical and laser-based systems supporting NASA, DoD, and commercial ...

Principal Civil Engineer (TS/SCI Required) Location: Reston, VA Leidos is seeking an accomplished Principal Civil Engineer to support high-priority national security missions in Reston, Virginia.

Principal Civil Engineer (TS/SCI Required) Location: Reston, VA Leidos is seeking an accomplished Principal Civil Engineer to support high-priority national security missions in Reston, Virginia.

Showing results 41-60

Principal Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$73.4K

$146K

$210.7K

How much do principal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineer in Virginia is $145,957.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $171,500.00 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.

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 do principal engineers get paid?

Principal engineers typically earn between $120,000 and $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 their compensation package.

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.

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 most commonly searched types of Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Principal Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Principal Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Engineer jobs in VA? For Principal Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Principal Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,957 per year, or $70.2 per hour.

Construction Materials Principal Engineer

ECS Ltd

Charlottesville, VA

$95K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description


Responsibilities

ECS Limited is offering a unique opportunity for an experienced Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Principal Engineer to join our Charlottesville field services team in a dynamic work environment. In this role, you’ll be primarily responsible for ensuring that the quality and performance on a variety of projects meet our standards and will consult with clients and project teams to ensure goals and deadlines from proposal to final review are met.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee various CMT projects, review technical report reviews, prepare and review proposals, and assist with management of your department and P&L.
  • Provide technical expertise by reviewing reports and supporting CMT staff through mentorship, training, and development.
  • Actively mentor junior project managers and support overall development of your team, including collaborating with other managers and internal recruiters to make staffing decisions and suggestions based on the needs of your project.
  • Host or attend project meetings with clients and provide technical resolutions of issues as requested.
  • Successfully market our services through networking, while establishing new and maintaining existing client relationships.

Career Development

  • As your experience with us grows, ECS will support you in advancing in your career with the potential for advanced certifications and reviewer status with additional benefits through professional training programs.
#LI-AS1
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in any of the following: Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering and Management, Materials Science Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Geology; Note: Construction Management degrees and certain Technology degrees may not be considered.
  • A minimum of 12 full years of relevant experience, to include drafting, reviewing, and approving technical reports.
  • Professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) or Professional Geologist (PG).
  • Must have designation as a senior reviewer at your current or previous firm; detailed information on ECS’ senior reviewer policy may be shared at time of interview or offer.
  • Maintain all necessary licenses and certifications for compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
  • Demonstrated technical competence, leadership, safety, and professionalism.
  • Proven track-record of excellence in project management, consulting, and business development.
  • Expert knowledge of CMT principles, applications, and ASTM laboratory standards.
  • Must have valid driver's license and insurance if driving on behalf of ECS.
  • Strong marketing skills with the ability to establish and maintain client relationships; experience with established relationships in local market is preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing).
  • Excellent leadership and decision-making skills with the ability to work effectively with clients, peers, and supervisors.

The expected pay range for this role and location is $95k - $115k/year. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.


About Us

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

Qualifications:

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME