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Principal Java Software Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

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JAVA Developer - Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

The Java Developer will work as part of a software development team to design, develop, maintain, test, and support Java-based applications. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a large ...

Quantix

Java Engineer

Philadelphia, PA

$52.25 - $71.75/hr

Work with the latest and greatest software development tools and true software engineering mindset ... Java Engineer Location: Philadelphia, PA Type: Direct Hire Client located with offices in ...

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All JobsPrincipal Java Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Java Software Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Principal Java Software Engineer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$83.8K

$151K

$203.3K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal java software engineer in Philadelphia, PA is $151,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,700.00 and $166,500.00 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 popular job titles related to Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Principal Java Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

Principal Java Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Java Software Engineer job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,040 per year, or $72.6 per hour.

Java Software Engineer /Onsite

Motion Recruitment Partners, LLC

Camden, NJ • On-site

$52.25 - $71.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

A defense tech organization is hiring a Senior Software Engineer to join a long-term development program focused on next-generation systems in the industry. This role is centered on building and optimizing real-time, high-performance backend software that runs directly on advanced hardware. You will contribute to brand-new development on a program that will remain active for years, from early implementation through deployment across multiple platforms. The position emphasizes deep technical problem-solving, performance optimization, and ownership of complex software components in a highly technical environment.
This is a full-time, permanent, onsite role.
Required Skills & Experience:
  • Java experience
  • Experience with multiprocessor systems
  • Linux development environments
  • GitLab or similar version control tools
  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, and data analysis
  • 4+ years of experience
  • Active Secret Clearance

Desired Skills & Experience:
  • Mathematics background
  • Defense industry experience
  • Prior work in defense-related systems

What You Will Be Doing:
  • 100% backend software development
  • 100% new development

The Offer:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States and already hold an active security clearance.

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