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Principal Engineer Jobs in Tracy, CA (NOW HIRING)

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will play a crucial role in delivering high quality releases to our customers by defining application architecture, designing, developing, troubleshooting ...

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will play a crucial role in delivering high quality releases to our customers by defining application architecture, designing, developing, troubleshooting ...

Overview As a Principal Software Engineer, you will play a crucial role in delivering high quality releases to our customers by defining application architecture, designing, developing ...

We're looking for a Principal AI Engineer This role is Hybrid, Dublin Office We are seeking a Principal AI Engineer to design, build, and scale AI-driven systems across our product platforms. This ...

We're looking for a Principal AI Engineer This role is Hybrid, Dublin Office We are seeking a Principal AI Engineer to design, build, and scale AI-driven systems across our product platforms. This ...

Overview The Principal AI/ML Operations Engineer leads the architecture, automation, and operationalization of both machine learning and AI systems at scale. This role defines the strategy and ...

We are seeking a Principal AI Engineer to design, build, and scale AI-driven systems across our product platforms. This role is ideal for a deeply technical engineer who leads through hands-on ...

We're looking for a Principal Data Engineer This role is Hybrid, Dublin Office We are seeking a Principal Data & Advanced Analytics Engineer to help us unlock the next frontier of insight-driven ...

We're looking for a Principal Data Engineer This role is Hybrid, Dublin Office We are seeking a Principal Data & Advanced Analytics Engineer to help us unlock the next frontier of insight-driven ...

The Principal AI/ML Operations Engineer leads the architecture, automation, and operationalization of both machine learning and AI systems at scale. This role defines the strategy and technical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Principal Engineer information

See Tracy, CA salary details

$79.7K

$158.5K

$228.8K

How much do principal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineer in Tracy, CA is $158,480.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,600.00 and $186,200.00 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 Tracy, CA? The most popular types of Principal Engineer jobs in Tracy, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Engineer jobs in Tracy, CA? For Principal Engineer jobs in Tracy, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Engineer jobs in Tracy, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Engineer jobs in Tracy, CA are:
What cities near Tracy, CA are hiring for Principal Engineer jobs? Cities near Tracy, CA with the most Principal Engineer job openings:

Principal Engineer, Regional Office Lead

REY Engineers, Inc

Pleasanton, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Principal Engineer
R.E.Y. Engineers, Inc.
๐Ÿ“ Pleasanton, CA | Full-Time | Leadership Opportunity
About R.E.Y. Engineers, Inc.
R.E.Y. Engineers, Inc. is a California-based civil engineering and land surveying firm dedicated to improving communities through innovative design and technical excellence. For over 30 years, our projects have shaped the built environment - from public works and transportation infrastructure to land development and utility improvements.
We're expanding our Bay Area leadership team and seeking a Principal Engineer to oversee multidisciplinary projects, manage client relationships, and lead strategic business growth throughout Northern California.
Position Overview
We are adding a Principal Engineer to our Bay Area office! This person will help lead the planning, design, and delivery of civil engineering projects while managing teams across multiple disciplines, including surveying and construction management.
This role combines technical mastery, project management, and business leadership, providing an opportunity to guide R.E.Y.'s Bay Area operations and mentor the next generation of engineering professionals.
You'll collaborate closely with firm leadership to develop regional strategies, pursue new opportunities, and ensure excellence in every phase of project execution.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Technical Oversight
  • Provide direction on civil engineering design and project delivery.
  • Oversee preparation and review of grading, drainage, roadway, water, sewer, and storm drain plans.
  • Ensure QA/QC compliance and alignment with client, agency, and regulatory standards.
  • Guide technical teams in the preparation of PS&E packages, feasibility studies, and construction documents.
  • Serve as Engineer of Record and technical authority on key infrastructure projects.
Project & Client Management
  • Manage multiple large-scale projects from concept through construction.
  • Lead communication and coordination among engineering, surveying, and external teams.
  • Oversee budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation to ensure profitability and quality.
  • Serve as the primary client contact for municipalities, developers, and public agencies.
  • Provide construction-phase support including submittal reviews, change management, and field coordination.
Business Development
  • Lead proposal development, contract negotiations, and presentations for new opportunities.
  • Build and maintain long-term client partnerships to expand R.E.Y.'s Bay Area presence.
  • Identify new markets and growth opportunities in public infrastructure, land development, and utilities.
  • Represent R.E.Y. at industry events, professional associations, and regional networking forums.
Team Development
  • Mentor engineers, designers, and project managers in professional and leadership growth.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performance team culture focused on innovation and accountability.
  • Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance development of regional staff.

Qualifications
  • Professional Civil Engineer (PE) license in the State of California (required).
  • 15+ years of progressive experience in civil engineering design and project management, including leadership or supervisory roles.
  • Proven success managing multidisciplinary teams on public infrastructure or land development projects.
  • Strong client network and familiarity with Bay Area agencies and development processes.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D, hydraulic/hydrology modeling software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field (required).

Why Join R.E.Y.
  • Help with the expansion of a well-established firm into a growing regional market.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership and shape R.E.Y.'s future in the Bay Area.
  • Work on transformative infrastructure and development projects across Northern California.
  • Competitive salary range: $160,000 - $225,000, plus potential bonus and ownership opportunities for senior-level candidates.
  • Full benefits coverage including: medical, dental, vision, 401k, and additional insurance options.

R.E.Y. Engineers, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, age, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable laws.