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Principal Java Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Software Engineer-JAVA

Boston, MA · On-site

$56.25 - $77.25/hr

Java Lead / Coordinator role.( Tech Stack- Java, springboot, APU development. Aws and frontend exp is a plus) * Manage and coordinate a team of 6-8 offshore developers. * Work closely with the ...

Principal Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Software Developers work closely with business partners and/or external clients in defining ... Work with Java, Hibernate, Spring Boot, Kafka to architect and implement scalable, resilient, and ...

Principal Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$146K - $196K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that ... Experience with relevant programming languages, frameworks, and technologies (e.g., Java, C++, NET ...

Principal Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$146K - $196K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that ... Experience with relevant programming languages, frameworks, and technologies (e.g., Java, C++, NET ...

Principal Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$152K - $228K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will work across application code and infrastructure to collect, transform, and deliver structured threat data: tracking malware infrastructure, phishing ...

Showing results 41-60

Principal Java Software Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$90.2K

$162.6K

$218.9K

How much do principal java software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal java software engineer in Boston, MA is $162,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,600.00 and $179,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal Java software engineer?

A Principal Java Software Engineer is a senior-level technical expert responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing complex Java-based applications. They provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, and drive best practices in coding, architecture, and system scalability. This role often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure high-quality software delivery while aligning with business objectives. Additionally, they evaluate new technologies, improve system performance, and contribute to strategic decision-making within the engineering team.

What are the typical responsibilities of a principal Java software engineer within a development team?

A Principal Java Software Engineer is generally responsible for leading the technical design and implementation of major software projects, making architectural decisions, and ensuring best coding practices throughout the team. They mentor junior engineers, conduct code reviews, and often coordinate with product managers, QA, and DevOps to facilitate seamless project delivery. Beyond hands-on coding, they provide strategic guidance, troubleshoot complex technical problems, and help shape the long-term technology roadmap. This role typically involves balancing individual contribution with leadership and collaboration across multiple teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal Java software engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Java Software Engineer, you need advanced proficiency in Java, strong knowledge of system architecture and design patterns, and extensive experience in large-scale application development, usually supported by a degree in computer science or equivalent experience. Familiarity with frameworks like Spring, cloud technologies (AWS or Azure), CI/CD tools, and relevant certifications such as Oracle Certified Professional – Java SE are typically required. Exceptional leadership, mentoring, communication, and problem-solving skills help you guide teams and work collaboratively across departments. These combined technical and interpersonal skills enable you to drive complex projects, set technical direction, and deliver robust software solutions efficiently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

For Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Principal Java Software Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,613 per year, or $78.2 per hour.

Software Engineer (Backend / System Integration)

Bedford, MA • Hybrid

Valiant Harbor International, LLC
Business Management Consulting • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 3 hours ago


Job description

Valiant Harbor International is a CVE Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business that specializes in technical, programmatic, acquisition, compliance, and financial services for Government science and technology, research and development, and technological programs. At Valiant Harbor International, we help federal agencies solve complex technical challenges by delivering practical, mission-focused solutions.
Job Description
Valiant Harbor International is seeking a Full-Stack Software Engineer to support advanced U.S. Air Force programs at Hanscom AFB providing expert support in developing secure backend services, APIs, enterprise integrations, and software deployed within Linux-based environments. As a member of a highly technical team, you'll collaborate directly with Air Force engineers and stakeholders to build mission-critical software that integrates complex systems, processes data securely, and supports operational capabilities across government environments.  This is a full-time position in a hybrid work environment.
What You'll Do
If you enjoy discovering challenging software solutions that has real-world mission impact, this opportunity is right for you.

  • Design, develop, and maintain secure backend software applications and services using Java.
  • Build scalable REST APIs, enterprise integrations, and database-driven applications.
  • Develop software  to support reliable communication between multiple systems and data sources.
  • Develop software that operates within Linux/Unix environments and supports deployment in secure government networks.
  • Collaborate directly with Air Force stakeholders to translate mission needs into technical solutions.
  • Develop clean, maintainable, and well-tested code following modern software engineering best practices.
  • Participate in code reviews and contribute to technical design discussions.
  • Troubleshoot complex backend, integration, and performance issues across distributed systems.
  • Support secure software development and DevSecOps practices throughout the software lifecycle.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of shared libraries, development tools, and engineering processes.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and recommend new tools and approaches that improve system performance, security, and maintainability.

Technology Environment
  • Java
  • Linux/Unix
  • REST APIs
  • Enterprise System Integration
  • SQL Databases
  • Git
  • XML
  • Secure Software Development
  • DevSecOps Practices and CI/CD
  • Modern Software Architecture
  • Containerization (e.g., Docker/Kubernetes)
  • Cloud Technologies (desired)

Required Qualifications
  • Active Secret security clearance required at time of selection; the successful candidate must be able and willing to obtain/maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility after selection.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related STEM discipline.
  • 7–10 years of professional software engineering experience.
  • Full-stack experience required with deep backend engineering expertise designing and developing secure backend software applications, APIs, and enterprise integrations.
  • Experience integrating multiple software systems, services, or data sources within enterprise or mission-critical environments.
  • Experience with multiple languages in various environments. Must have Java software language experience working within the Linux/Unix environments.
  • Experience with containerization, CI/CD pipelines, cloud technologies, modern Java frameworks, or enterprise integration technologies is preferred.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Willingness to travel as required.

Desired / Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense or Intelligence Community programs.
  • Familiarity with SIPRNet and JWICS environments.
  • Experience designing software architecture and technical roadmaps.
  • Experience supporting Agile software development teams.
  • Former military service or prior experience supporting DoD customers.


Security Clearance
Active Secret clearance required prior to selection. Selected candidate must be eligible to obtain a Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
Salary
Competitive and commensurate with experience.
Why Join Valiant Harbor?
At Valiant Harbor International, you'll work alongside experienced professionals supporting some of the nation's most important technology initiatives. As a growing small business, our engineers make meaningful technical contributions, work directly with customers, influence solution design, and solve challenging engineering problems with real-world mission impact.
nal, you'll work alongside experienced professionals supporting some of the nation's most important technology initiatives. As a growing small business, our engineers make meaningful technical contributions, work directly with customers, influence solution design, and solve challenging engineering problems with real-world mission impact.
 

EEO Statement: Valiant Harbor International, LLC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Valiant Harbor International prohibits discrimination with respect to the hiring or promotion of individuals, conditions of employment, disciplinary and discharge practices, or any other aspect of employment on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected class.  If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact (202) 417-6705 for assistance.