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Principal Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Principal Engineer (Backend / Platform)About Us We are a Cambridge, MA-based rapidly scaling Generative AI startup. Our platform enables thousands of AI Agents to "think" and cooperate for hours to ...

Software Principal Engineer

Hopkinton, MA ยท On-site

$178.50K - $231K/yr

Software Principal Engineer The Software Engineering team delivers next-generation application enhancements and new products for a changing world. Working at the cutting edge, we design and develop ...

Description We are seeking a Principal Engineer to spearhead the development of cutting-edge Application Security products. This high-impact role involves working closely with Product and Engineering ...

Title: IT Principal Engineer Description: Must have experience in Private Credit, or Private Equity Interview Process: 2 possibly 3 (1st with HM, 2nd panel or with 2 Scrum Masters) * Knowledge of ...

Principal Engineer (Backend / Platform) About Blitzy Blitzy is a Cambridge, MA based AI software development platform on a mission to revolutionize the software development life cycle by autonomously ...

Principal Engineer (Backend / Platform) About Blitzy Blitzy is a Cambridge, MA based AI software development platform on a mission to revolutionize the software development life cycle by autonomously ...

Staff / Principal Engineer

Boston, MA ยท On-site +1

$163.55K - $185K/yr

Staff / Principal Engineer Department: Advisory Employment Type: Full Time Location: US Compensation: $163,547 - $185,000 / year Description Newfire Global Partners is a leading technology firm that ...

Principal Engineer (Backend / Platform)About Us We are a Cambridge, MA-based rapidly scaling Generative AI startup. Our platform enables thousands of AI Agents to "think" and cooperate for hours to ...

Job Summary The Principal Engineer, Quality will play a key role in ensuring product excellence by analyzing, developing, implementing, and executing processes that uphold the highest standards of ...

Principal Engineer, Software

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$146.70K - $196.60K/yr

As a Principal Engineer, you will be the senior-most technical voice on the US engineering team for Verint's QM and PM platform. You will define and drive the technical direction of the platform, own ...

Using Engineering procedures standard for research and development, carries out assignments associated with research, design, development, support or manufacturing of specific parts, processes ...

Using Engineering procedures standard for research and development, carries out assignments associated with research, design, development, support or manufacturing of specific parts, processes ...

Using Engineering procedures standard for research and development, carries out assignments associated with research, design, development, support or manufacturing of specific parts, processes ...

Using Engineering procedures standard for research and development, carries out assignments associated with research, design, development, support or manufacturing of specific parts, processes ...

Using Engineering procedures standard for research and development, carries out assignments associated with research, design, development, support or manufacturing of specific parts, processes ...

Using Engineering procedures standard for research and development, carries out assignments associated with research, design, development, support or manufacturing of specific parts, processes ...

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Principal Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$80.4K

$159.9K

$230.9K

How much do principal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineer in Boston, MA is $159,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,700.00 and $187,900.00 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 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 Principal Engineers?

Principal Engineers are highly experienced technical experts who lead engineering teams, provide strategic technical direction, and help solve complex engineering challenges within an organization. They often act as mentors, set technical standards, and collaborate with stakeholders across departments to drive innovation and ensure the success of engineering projects. Principal Engineers typically have many years of industry experience and are recognized for their deep technical knowledge and leadership skills.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Principal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Principal Engineer jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Principal Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Principal Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,940 per year, or $76.9 per hour.