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Principal Software Developer Jobs in Connecticut

Principal Software Engineer

Bethel, CT · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Principal Software Engineer - Bethel, CT - Contract to hire * 5 days onsite in Bethel, CT * US or GC Holders only. * 100-140/hr C2C Experience * 10+ years of experience with object-oriented software ...

Principal Software Engineer

Hartford, CT

$136K - $182K/yr

Principal Software Engineer (T6) Role Summary The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical ... SDLC, DevOps & Operational Excellence: * Champion strong AI driven SDLC and DevOps practices ...

Principal Software Engineer

North Haven, CT

$134K - $180K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that support the development, optimization, and sustained performance of products produced across ...

Principal Software Engineer

North Haven, CT

$134K - $180K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that support the development, optimization, and sustained performance of products produced across ...

Principal Software Engineer

Danbury, CT · On-site

$137K - $184K/yr

We are seeking a Software Engineer to join our highly dynamic team developing machine control solutions for our high-performance mailing solutions. We are looking for high energy team players with ...

Software Engineering Principal

Bloomfield, CT · On-site

$134K - $180K/yr

We are looking for a Principal Engineer to drive Data Monetization architecture, accelerate ... Required Qualifications * 10+ years of experience in software engineering, architecture ...

We are looking for a Principal Engineer to drive Data Monetization architecture, accelerate ... Required Qualifications * 10+ years of experience in software engineering, architecture ...

The Assistant Vice President, Principal Software Engineer craves working in a hands-on system design and architecture environment and leads by example to make sure time sensitive projects get done on ...

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Showing results 1-20

Principal Software Developer information

See Connecticut salary details

$89.9K

$134.3K

$176.5K

How much do principal software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software developer in Connecticut is $134,294.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $147,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Software Developer vs Senior Software Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Software DeveloperSenior Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master’s in Computer Science; extensive experienceBachelor's or Master’s in Computer Science; 5+ years experience
Work EnvironmentLeads technical strategy, mentors teams, influences architectureDevelops features, writes code, mentors junior staff
Industry UsageUsed in large organizations, tech companies, and enterprise settingsCommon across startups, mid-sized, and large companies

The Principal Software Developer typically holds a higher-level role focused on technical leadership, architecture, and strategic planning, whereas the Senior Software Engineer primarily focuses on coding, feature development, and mentoring. Both roles require strong technical skills, but the Principal position involves broader responsibilities and influence within the organization.

How does a Principal Software Developer typically balance hands-on coding with leadership and mentorship responsibilities?

As a Principal Software Developer, you’ll often split your time between writing high-impact code and guiding technical direction for the team. While you remain involved in architecting and developing complex features, a significant portion of your role will also involve mentoring less-experienced developers, leading code reviews, and fostering best practices. You’ll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align technical solutions with business goals, and you’re expected to influence the overall engineering culture. This balance requires strong time management skills and a passion for both technical excellence and team development.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Principal Software Developers in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and stock options or bonuses. Compensation varies based on company size, location, and individual performance.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Software Developers and senior engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often depends on factors such as industry, location, company size, and expertise in areas like cloud computing, machine learning, or distributed systems.

Can you make $500,000 as a software engineer?

Principal Software Developers and experienced software engineers in high-demand industries or senior roles can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, or in high-cost-of-living areas. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often leadership responsibilities or specialized expertise in areas like cloud computing or AI.

What does a principal software developer do?

A principal software developer leads the design, development, and implementation of complex software systems, often providing technical guidance to teams. They analyze requirements, set technical standards, and ensure code quality, typically using programming languages, development tools, and version control systems. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and experience in software architecture and project management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Software Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Software Developer, you need advanced expertise in software engineering, architecture design, and problem-solving, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field and extensive industry experience. Mastery of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C#), software development frameworks, cloud platforms, and familiarity with tools like Git, Docker, and CI/CD systems is critical. Leadership, effective communication, and mentorship abilities are vital soft skills that set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure scalable solutions, effective project delivery, and the growth of high-performing development teams.
What are popular job titles related to Principal Software Developer jobs in Connecticut? For Principal Software Developer jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Principal Software Developer job openings in Connecticut as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,294 per year, or $64.6 per hour.
Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

3B Staffing LLC

Bethel, CT • On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Principal Software Engineer - Bethel, CT - Contract to hire
  • 5 days onsite in Bethel, CT
  • US or GC Holders only.
  • 100-140/hr C2C
Experience
  • 10+ years of experience with object-oriented software design & development.
  • 7+ years software design and development with strong C++ programming skills
  • Real time operation systems experience as well as experience with software controls.
  • Experience working in an Agile development environment
  • BS or MS Degree in Computer Science or related discipline