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Principal Software Architect Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Software Architect shall be the principal author and advocate for the specification of software architecture and design for GridPoint's product and service offerings portfolio. The Software ...

The Software Architect shall be the principal author and advocate for the specification of software architecture and design for GridPoint's product and service offerings portfolio. The Software ...

Principal Software Engineer -- emPower Do you love working with connected devices, automation, and ... You will help define architecture, guide major design decisions, mentor engineers, and lead the ...

Principal Software Engineer

Mclean, VA

$136K - $183K/yr

Principal Software Engineer -- emPower Do you love working with connected devices, automation, and ... You will help define architecture, guide major design decisions, mentor engineers, and lead the ...

Principal Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Principal Software Engineer -- emPower Do you love working with connected devices, automation, and ... You will help define architecture, guide major design decisions, mentor engineers, and lead the ...

Principal Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Title and Summary Principal Software Engineer About Mastercard Mastercard is a global technology ... Thought Leadership & Influence - Lead architectural design for complex, enterprise-wide initiatives ...

Principal Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$220K - $372K/yr

As a Principal Engineer in NetApp's Cloud Storage organization, you will lead and execute our most ... You will be responsible for system architecture, decomposing complex problems into simple solutions ...

Principal Software Development Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $188K/yr

Software Engineering & Development: Demonstrable proficiency in Python, Go, or Java with a strong ... Architectural & Quality Standards: Validated expert ability to define System Architectures, Data ...

The Cyber Software Capability Lead and Principal Software Engineer provides technical leadership for the architecture, development, and evolution of G2 Ops' software capabilities supporting the AEGIS ...

Principal Software Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$138K - $185K/yr

Principal Software Engineer - Onsite Ashburn, VA or Massachusetts We are looking for creative ... Provide input to architecture, design and code reviews. * Provide input and evaluation of new ...

Principal Software Engineer

Ashburn, VA

$138K - $185K/yr

Principal Software Engineer - Onsite Ashburn, VA or Massachusetts We are looking for creative ... Provide input to architecture, design and code reviews. * Provide input and evaluation of new ...

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Principal Software Architect information

See Virginia salary details

$116K

$190.1K

$271.6K

How much do principal software architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software architect in Virginia is $190,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,200.00 and $231,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a principal software architect?

To thrive as a Principal Software Architect, you need deep expertise in software design, architecture patterns, and multiple programming languages, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with cloud platforms (like AWS, Azure), architectural modeling tools (such as UML), and certifications like TOGAF or AWS Certified Solutions Architect is valuable. Leadership, strong communication, and the ability to mentor and influence cross-functional teams are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for guiding technical direction, ensuring scalable and maintainable solutions, and fostering alignment across technical and business stakeholders.

What is a principal software architect?

A Principal Software Architect is a senior technical leader responsible for designing, guiding, and overseeing an organization's software architecture. They establish technical standards, ensure scalable and efficient system design, and collaborate with engineering teams to implement best practices. This role involves making high-level design choices, mentoring developers, and aligning technical strategies with business goals. Principal Software Architects work closely with stakeholders to ensure that software solutions meet performance, security, and scalability requirements.

How much does a principal software architect make in the US?

A principal software architect in the US typically earns between $130,000 and $180,000 annually, with total compensation often including bonuses and stock options. Salaries vary based on experience, industry, company size, and location, with higher pay generally found in tech hubs and large organizations.

What does a principal software architect do?

A typical day for a Principal Software Architect involves collaborating with development teams, product managers, and stakeholders to define and refine architectural solutions for complex projects. You’ll spend time reviewing code and system designs, setting technical guidelines, and troubleshooting architectural issues. Mentoring team members, conducting architecture reviews, and ensuring alignment with business objectives are also central responsibilities. The role is both strategic and hands-on, requiring you to balance high-level planning with practical problem-solving, often across several simultaneous initiatives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Software Architect jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Principal Software Architect jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Software Architect jobs in Virginia? For Principal Software Architect jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Software Architect jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Software Architect jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Principal Software Architect job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $190,105 per year, or $91.4 per hour.

Principal Software Developer Architect

ATTAINX INC

Herndon, VA • On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Principal Software Developer Architect      

Location: Remote

Clearance:  Govt. Public Trust

Citizenship: US Citizenship or Work Visa Required       

Computer Exempt

Preferred Salary: *US market data $180,000.00 - $200,000.00. You will receive a competitive total rewards package that is applicable to the U.S. only. The salary range may vary based on experience, skillset, and geographical location.

  

AttainX is seeking an experienced Principal Software Developer Architect with excellent communication and technical skills to support our government client. The Architect will have a minimum of 10 years of experience with software development, databases, and system architecture. This candidate will work closely with software developers and government SMEs to understand system requirements and data needs of current and future software solutions. This individual will design, configure, operate, and perform maintenance on computer systems — including hardware, software, web portals, internet and intranet connections, firewalls, servers, and security. He/she must have a positive attitude that sets the tone for their team. Most importantly, embrace the unique culture by sharing knowledge and experience with our team through collaboration, group work and peer review. This position relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Agile/SCRUM experience is required.

Qualifications and Education Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree with10 years of relevant experience working as a software developer, database engineering and/or system architecture with experience leading large and complex cross-functional projects in a technology company, or master’s degree and 5 years of relevant experience. 
  • 10+ years of experience leading multiple software development initiatives.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience with Software Development, Azure and/or AWS Cloud Platforms, IT modernization.
  • Prior experience working as a Software Developer/Architect on one or more of the following: Cloud, and/or AWS Cloud Platforms, IT modernization, automation, RPA.
  • Prior experience working on USDA software development initiatives for Phytosanitary, Veterinary Services and Multinational Data Exchange.
  • Prior experience migrating code base fromRichfacestoPrimefaces.
  • Analytical, written, and verbal communication skills must be comfortable talking about technical matters with non-technical people and business matters with technical team members.
  • Must have attention to detail, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with an ability to thrive under pressure and navigate ambiguity effectively.
  • Experience andproficiencywith various web-based software applications including Azure DevOps, ALM, Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, etc.
  • Experience with and knowledge of USDA systems and architecture.
  • Must be able to obtain andmaintaina Public Trust clearance.

Job Duties:

Principal Software Developer Architect is responsible for leading the successful delivery of a contract with a USDA government client. This position is responsible for:

  • Collaborating with stakeholders and technical teams to understand requirements, providean optimizedarchitecture, and address technical limitations.
  • Lead enterprise digital transformation, cloud adoption, optimization, and automation by applying broad technical skills.
  • Provide thought leadership in solution architecture, design, development, requirements analysis, strategies, and reviews.
  • Apply independent analysis based on in-depth research and interpretive thinking. 
  • Evaluate and recommend technical solutions fromvarious options.
  • Utilize expert communication skills needed to direct the skilled technical resources and report on the technical progress, issues, and problem areas, as well as write and review technical documents.
  • Lead initiatives which include Cloud Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and software engineering initiatives.
  • Coordinate and inspireAttainXteam members to deliver technical solutions which meet the client’s needs.
  • Stay informed on industry trends and best practices in software development and architecture.

Non-Essential Functions:

  • General duty requirements as assigned.

About Us

AttainX Inc. is SBA Certified 8(a), Women Owned Small Business (WOSB), Economically Disadvantaged WOSB (EDWOSB), CMMI Level 3, ISO 9001:2015 certified QMS and Silver Level SaFe Partner. For more than 12 years, AttainX, Inc. has delivered emergent technologies, software products, and high-quality services that meet the needs of our Federal Government customers. 

The last 3 years have shown significant company growth as we have increased our contracts portfolio and hold the “Best in Class” contract vehicles, GSA MAS and OASIS Small Business and 8(a) Pools 1, 2 and 3. In addition, we are prime on several Agency Specific IDIQ’s and BPA’s with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Energy, Navy, Health and Human Service and the Defense Intelligence Agency.

AttainX is dedicated to quality and best practices for the services we provide. We understand our people are the key ingredient to ensuring our customers Mission and Goals are met with excellence. 

Benefits  

We are proud to offer competitive compensation and benefits packages to include paid vacation, medical, dental, vision, matching 401K plan, tuition/training reimbursement, and Long & Short-Term Disability. 

EEO Commitment:

AttainX is an equal employment opportunity employer, we are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination based on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, VEVRAA and Section 503, or other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law. These protections also extend to applicants.

Accommodations:

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable workplace accommodation, please send an email to Human Resources. Indicate the specifics of the assistance needed. 

Physical Demands:

Sitting and working on a computer for long, continuous periods each day; effective communications by telephone, email, and face-to-face; standing, walking, and sitting; handling and feeling objects or controls; reaching; talking and hearing; lifting and/or moving up to 10 pounds; and specific vision abilities including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust and focus.

Work Environment: The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.