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Principal Network Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

US Bank

Principal Network Engineer z/OS

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Support and optimize GDPS network infrastructure across multi-datacenter and disaster recovery environments to ensure high availability and resiliency. * Manage and maintain TPX Session Manager ...

kgs

Principal Network / Systems Architect

Carson, CA · Hybrid

The Principal Network/Systems Architect ensures that the network transport layer and the systems ... Network Engineering & Traffic Shaping * Network Access Control (NAC) & Firewalls * Vulnerability ...

Herbalife

Principal II, Network Engineer

Torrance, CA · Hybrid

The Principal II, Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting global network services across the enterprise. This role partners with cross-functional teams to ensure ...

Bloom Energy

Senior Staff Network Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$113K - $156K/yr

The Senior Principal Network Engineer plays a vital role in the management and maintenance of the enterprise network infrastructure. This position requires significant expertise in network support ...

Herbalife

Principal II, Network Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

The Principal II, Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting global network services across the enterprise. This role partners with cross-functional teams to ensure ...

Herbalife

Principal II, Network Engineer

Torrance, CA · Hybrid

The Principal II, Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting global network services across the enterprise. This role partners with cross-functional teams to ensure ...

Bloom Energy

Senior Staff Network Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$113K - $156K/yr

The Senior Principal Network Engineer plays a vital role in the management and maintenance of the enterprise network infrastructure. This position requires significant expertise in network support ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsPrincipal Network Engineer JobsPrincipal Network Engineer Jobs in California

Principal Network Engineer information

See California salary details

$20.7K

$131.5K

$201.8K

How much do principal network engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal network engineer in California is $131,498.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,500.00 and $155,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How much does a principal network engineer make in the US?

A principal network engineer in the US typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and industry. They often hold advanced certifications like CCNP or CCIE and have extensive knowledge of network architecture, security, and troubleshooting tools.
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What job categories do people searching Principal Network Engineer jobs in California look for?

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Principal Network Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Network Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,498 per year, or $63.2 per hour.

TS/SCI Principal Network Software Engineer (Long Beach)

Rocket Lab USA

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

A leading space company is seeking a Principal Network Software Engineer to join their team in Long Beach, CA. The successful candidate will manage software development for network systems related to Space-to-Space and Space-to-Ground Communications. This position requires at least 12 years of relevant industry experience and a Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline. Additional qualifications include a TS/SCI clearance and familiarity with agile methodologies. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are offered.
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