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Principal Software Developer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

PDW

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$138K - $186K/yr

The Principal Software Engineer will provide technical leadership, architect complex software systems, and mentor engineers while driving high-impact initiatives across multiple platforms.

PDW

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$138K - $186K/yr

They are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership, architect complex software systems, and mentor engineers while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Atom Computing

Principal Software Engineer

Boulder, CO

$180K - $220K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership for the software platform that orchestrates our quantum computers. In this role, you'll set the technical direction for a ...

Atom Computing

Principal Software Engineer

Boulder, CO

$180K - $220K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership for the software platform that orchestrates our quantum computers. In this role, you'll set the technical direction for a ...

ServiceTitan

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Over 50,000 people depend on our software to perform all their daily activities. We are looking for ... Principal Engineer We're looking for someone to lead all technical aspects of an engineering team ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPrincipal Software Developer JobsPrincipal Software Developer Jobs in Denver, CO

Principal Software Developer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$97.4K

$145.5K

$191.2K

How much do principal software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software developer in Denver, CO is $145,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $159,700.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal software developer?

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 Denver, CO? For Principal Software Developer jobs in Denver, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Software Developer jobs in Denver, CO look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Software Developer jobs in Denver, CO are:
Principal Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Developer job openings in Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,474 per year, or $69.9 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer -Aurora, CO - Active TS/SCI CI Poly with Security Clearance

SOC/Day & Zimmermann Federal Services

Aurora, CO • On-site

$102.62/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Principal Software Engineer is needed for a contract opportunity with SOCs client in Aurora, CO. *Must Have Active TS/SCI CI Poly Job Description: Our Client is seeking a talented Principal Software Engineer to join a talented team that develops enhancements and modifications to existing software systems. The successful candidate will have experience and knowledge with software engineering object-oriented technologies. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: * Troubleshoot system anomalies related to software, system configuration, network interfaces and operating system issues * Coordinate software installs/upgrades with adherence to Configuration Management (CM) procedures and policies * Software architecture design, development and testing * Develop/maintain system tools and documentation as required Required Skills Include: * Must have a current DODI 8570.1-M IAT Level II (Security+ ) (minimum) certification * Current TS/SCI with CiPoly * Experience with Jenkins * Java experience within a Linux environment * Java Messaging Service (JMS) experience * Experience with software deployments within Docker containers * Experience with Netbeans * Experience with JavaScript * Ability to perform all aspects of the software development lifecycle to include requirements definition * Ability to provide a variety of technical solutions for a wide range of difficult problems * Become an active member of our existing team of talented developers Employment Pre-requisites The following requirements must be met to be eligible for this position: successful completion of a background investigation, and drug urinalysis. SOC, a Day & Zimmermann company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer,EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability. #DZFED #INDSOC Estimated Min Rate: $71.83 Estimated Max Rate: $102.62

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