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Principal Project Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Principal Project Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

The Principal Project Engineer is responsible for driving the successful design, integration, and delivery of complex engineering projects across their full lifecycle. This role blends technical ...

3MD Inc.

Principal Project Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $177K/yr

The Principal Project Engineer is responsible for driving the successful design, integration, and delivery of complex engineering projects across their full lifecycle. This role blends technical ...

Merck Group

Principal Project Engineer

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$106K - $172K/yr

As a Principal Project Engineer at the Lenexa, KS site, you will lead key projects related to the design, qualification, and optimization of the cell culture media manufacturing equipment and ...

Merck Group

Principal Project Engineer

Jaffrey, NH · On-site

$112K - $168K/yr

As a Principal Project Engineer in the Engineering & Technology Team you are a critical business partner to ensure we will meet our ambitious investment objectives in our Life Science business unit.

Schwans

Principal Project Engineer

Florence, KY · On-site

$107K - $178K/yr

Our CJ Schwan's engineering team is seeking a remote-based Principal Project Engineer, with preference to someone in either the Cincinnati, Dayton, or Columbus, Ohio areas. In this role, you are ...

Prattwhitney

The Principal Project Engineer will be responsible for part-level ownership on a Component Integrated Product Team (CIPT) and will plan and execute assigned tasks to ensure the CIPT achieves overall ...

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Principal Project Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal project engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal project engineer?

Principal Project Engineers are senior-level professionals responsible for leading and managing complex engineering projects from conception to completion. They oversee project teams, coordinate resources, ensure adherence to technical standards, and communicate with stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within budget. Their role often involves high-level decision-making, risk management, and providing technical guidance to other engineers. Additionally, they may help set project strategies and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

How does a principal project engineer typically interact with cross-functional teams during a project's lifecycle?

A Principal Project Engineer plays a central role in coordinating efforts across various departments, such as design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement. They lead technical discussions, ensure alignment on project goals, and resolve cross-functional challenges to keep the project on track. Effective communication, stakeholder management, and the ability to translate technical requirements between teams are crucial for success in this role. Regular meetings, progress updates, and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common aspects of their daily responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Principal Project Engineer, you need deep expertise in engineering principles, project management, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering with several years of relevant experience. Proficiency with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and relevant industry certifications (like PMP or PE licensure) is often required. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills help drive cross-functional teams and stakeholder alignment. These abilities are crucial for delivering complex projects on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

What is the difference between Principal Project Engineer vs Project Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Project EngineerProject Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's degree in engineering and extensive experience; often professional engineer (PE) licenseBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLeads large projects, oversees teams, and coordinates with stakeholdersSupports project tasks, manages specific project segments, reports to senior engineers
Industry UsageCommon in construction, oil & gas, and infrastructure sectorsUsed across various engineering fields for project execution

The Principal Project Engineer holds a senior leadership role, overseeing entire projects and teams, while the Project Engineer focuses on specific project tasks and supports project management. Both roles require engineering credentials, but the Principal Project Engineer typically has more experience and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Principal Project Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Project Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Principal Project Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Project Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Project Engineer jobs?

For Principal Project Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Principal Project Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Project Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Project Engineer

Santa Maria, CA

Resource Management Solutions
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Resource Management Solutionsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

A leading Southern California-based electric contractor has a need for a Project Engineer to join their team. The role of the Project Engineer is to support the Project Manager in planning, execution, and close-out of projects according to schedule and budget. This includes coordinating internal resources/equipment and coordinating the efforts of team members as well as third-party contractors or consultants in order to deliver projects according to plan. The Project Engineer will also oversee quality control throughout the project cycle. A Project Engineer is the principal project administrator and communications link between Company and:

  • The client.
  • Subcontractors
  • Local, State, and Federal Regulatory agencies.

A leading Southern California-based electric contractor has a need for a Project Engineer to join their team. The role of the Project Engineer is to support the Project Manager in planning, execution, and close-out of projects according to schedule and budget. This includes coordinating internal resources/equipment and coordinating the efforts of team members as well as third-party contractors or consultants in order to deliver projects according to plan. The Project Engineer will also oversee quality control throughout the project cycle. A Project Engineer is the principal project administrator and communications link between Company and:

  • The client.
  • Subcontractors
  • Local, State, and Federal Regulatory agencies.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The Project Engineer shall be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:

  • Overall project support either directly or coordination through other Project Coordinators or administrative staff
  • Prepare and submit request for information (RFI/RFCs)
  • Prepare and review materials submittal packages
  • Assist with preparation of subcontractor agreements
  • Assist with vetting of subcontractors/material suppliers for the project
  • Solving construction problems as soundly as possible
  • Updating project schedule and look ahead schedule
  • Conducting surveys on the sites where the construction is to take place
  • Acting as the quality control and assurance to ensure that the project objectives are met
  • Assist with ensuring all construction safety rules and regulations are being observed
  • Prepare daily job costs and daily field logs for the project
  • Obtain construction materials and verify for accuracy
  • Monitor the cost of the materials against budget

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Create reports; document organization skills; teamwork mentality
  • Effective computer skills; Microsoft Office software a must; Viewpoint accounting software, Bluebeam, and Conest Estimating software a plus
  • Effective communication skills both verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals insi02de and outside the Company
  • Effective analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to multi-task effectively

Education/Training

  • Bachelor’s Degree in construction related field is a plus
  • Preferred 1-5 years’ experience in a similar role
  • Construction industry experience preferred