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Principal Network Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GDIT

Principal Network Engineer

Rockville, MD · Remote

As a Principal Network Engineer supporting the IHS EHR program, you will be trusted to engage in a variety of technical topics to ensure the success of our customer. This is a remote position, US ...

Zelis

Principal Network Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Position Overview The Principal Network Engineer will be responsible for the design, architecture, implementation, automation, and security of the organization's enterprise network infrastructure ...

Zelis

Principal Network Engineer

Atlanta, GA · Hybrid

Position Overview The Principal Network Engineer will be responsible for the design, architecture, implementation, automation, and security of the organization's enterprise network infrastructure ...

Astrion

$165K - $180K/yr

Overview Principal Network Engineer LOCATION: Hanscom AFB, Bedford, MA JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret Salary Range: 150-180k dependent upon customer requirements when position is awarded ...

Arctiq

Principal Network Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

The Principal Network Engineer serves as the senior-most technical authority for enterprise networking, network security, connectivity, and perimeter infrastructure across the client. This role is ...

Arctiq, Inc.

Principal Network Engineer

Charlotte, NC · Hybrid

The Principal Network Engineer serves as the senior-most technical authority for enterprise networking, network security, connectivity, and perimeter infrastructure across the client. This role is ...

Arctiq

Principal Network Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

The Principal Network Engineer serves as the senior-most technical authority for enterprise networking, network security, connectivity, and perimeter infrastructure across the client. This role is ...

Leidos

Principal Network Engineer

Odenton, MD · On-site

The Principal Network Engineer will be responsible for advancing enterprise network innovation through the execution of strategic design and implementation efforts. This role will lead upcoming and ...

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Principal Network Engineer information

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$21K

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How much do principal network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal network engineer in the United States is $133,243.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,000.00 and $158,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Network Engineer vs Network Architect?

AspectPrincipal Network EngineerNetwork Architect
CredentialsBS in Computer Science or related, Cisco/Juniper certificationsBS in Computer Science or related, Cisco/Juniper certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, implement, and troubleshoot network solutions within organizationsDesign overall network infrastructure and architecture for organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for senior technical rolesUsed in enterprise and large organizations for planning network systems
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for senior technical expertiseCompared for strategic network planning roles

The main difference is that a Principal Network Engineer focuses on implementing and troubleshooting network solutions, while a Network Architect designs the overall network architecture and strategy. Both roles require similar certifications and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the main challenges principal network engineers face when leading large-scale network projects?

Principal Network Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating cross-functional teams, designing scalable solutions that align with business goals, and managing the integration of emerging technologies into existing infrastructure. Balancing competing priorities—like security, performance, and budget constraints—while ensuring minimal downtime is a common part of the role. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential, as Principal Network Engineers frequently serve as the technical authority and must guide both junior engineers and stakeholders through complex decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal network engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Network Engineer, you need deep expertise in network architecture, routing and switching, security protocols, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with enterprise networking hardware, software-defined networking (SDN), firewalls, and certifications such as CCNP or CCIE are essential. Outstanding problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you manage complex projects and guide technical teams. These competencies are critical to ensuring reliable, secure, and scalable network infrastructures that support organizational goals.

What is a principal network engineer?

Principal Network Engineers are senior-level professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex network infrastructures within an organization. They lead network architecture initiatives, oversee security protocols, and ensure high availability and performance of network systems. In addition, they often mentor junior engineers, set technical standards, and collaborate with other IT teams to align network solutions with business goals. Their expertise is crucial for maintaining reliable and scalable connectivity in large enterprises.

What does a principal network engineer do?

As a principal network engineer, you are responsible for the daily operations of a computer system. Your responsibilities are to install, organize, and support systems for an organization. The systems you work with often aid a company in its communications, as with local area networks and wide area networks. Other duties include the installation of hardware, regular system maintenance, and optimization of network performance. You might also train individuals in the use of relevant software or hardware. In some cases, you might help with email and data storage.

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Principal Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Network Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,243 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

Principal Network Engineer/Sr. Principal Network Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Melbourne, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman's Aeronautics Systems sector is seeking a Principal Network Engineer/Sr. Principal Network Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals in defining the future. This position will be located in Melbourne, FL.
**This position may be filled by either at the Principal Network Engineer level OR at the Sr. Principal Network Engineer level based on the qualifications listed.**
Tasks include, but are not limited to:
  • The selected candidate will demonstrate technical skills, organization, be an effective communicator, and problem solver who is able to develop and maintain good working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
  • The candidate will demonstrate a commitment to ethics and integrity, and the capability to innovate.
  • They will have the ability to operate in a team environment and collaborate across the program as required to accomplish tasking.
  • Generally frequent use and application of technical standards, principles, theories, concepts and techniques.
  • Demonstrates the skill and ability to perform moderately complex professional tasks.
  • Problem Solving
  • Provides solutions to a variety of technical problems of increasing scope and complexity as assigned
  • Work is reviewed for soundness of technical judgment, overall adequacy and accuracy.
  • Work under general supervision.

Basic Qualifications:
Principal Network Engineer: (T03)
  • Must have a Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) discipline from an accredited university AND 5 years of related professional/military experience in Engineering; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline from an accredited university AND 3 years of related professional/military experience in Engineering; or a Ph.D. AND 1 years of related professional/military experience in Engineering.
  • Must have an Active, In-Scope, DOD Secret Security Clearance or higher that has been granted / renewed within the past 6 years.
  • Familiarity with AGILE processes and SCRUM tools (JIRA, Confluence)
  • Familiar with Windows and Linux configuration and troubleshooting.

Basic Qualifications:
Sr. Principal Network Engineer: (T04)
  • Must have a Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) discipline from an accredited university AND 8 years of related professional/military experience in Engineering; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline from an accredited university AND 6 years of related professional/military experience in Engineering; or a Ph.D. AND 4 years of related professional/military experience in Engineering.
  • Must have an Active, In-Scope, DOD Secret Security Clearance or higher that has been granted / renewed within the past 6 years.
  • Familiarity with AGILE processes and SCRUM tools (JIRA, Confluence)
  • Familiar with Windows and Linux configuration and troubleshooting.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • DODD 8570 certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or similar network/security certifications
  • A professional certification specific to the networking industry like a CCNA/CCNP/CCIE or equivalent.
  • Experience with authentication and data encryption methods, to include securing communications at either the datalink or network layer
  • Experience with embedded systems, Unix and Linux operating systems, single board computers, servers and Network Attached Storage (NAS) solutions
  • Experience with non-Cisco networking environments such as Juniper or Palo Alto.
  • Experience with virtualization environments
  • Working knowledge of cyber security and Risk Managed Framework (RMF), STIGs and associated elements
  • Familiar with network management applications, like Splunk, Firepower Management Center (FMC), and/or Cisco ISE.
  • Experience with HAIPE/TACLANE and other military COMSEC/CRYPTO equipment and procedures.
  • Experience with tactical/military radio networks, like Common Data Link (CDL) and ANW2.
  • Experience performing troubleshooting with traffic capture tools, such as Wireshark and tcpdump, nmap and netcat.

Primary Level Salary Range: $98,400.00 - $147,600.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $122,800.00 - $184,200.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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