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Principal Software Development Engineer

$144K - $288K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Principal / Director-level Full-Stack Software Development Engineer to join our Digital Caremark organization and lead the architecture, design ...

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How much do principal software development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software development engineer in the United States is $160,936.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,000.00 and $181,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal software development engineer?

A Principal Software Development Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for designing, developing, and guiding complex software projects. They often set technical direction, mentor engineering teams, and ensure best practices are followed across projects. Principal engineers collaborate closely with product managers, architects, and other stakeholders to deliver scalable and robust software solutions. Their role usually requires extensive experience in software engineering, deep technical expertise, and strong leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal software development engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Software Development Engineer, you need deep expertise in software architecture, advanced programming skills, and a strong foundation in computer science, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Mastery of development frameworks, cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure), and familiarity with CI/CD tools are commonly required, along with experience leading code reviews and technical teams. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help you mentor others and drive cross-functional projects to success. These skills and qualities are critical for guiding technical direction, ensuring high-quality solutions, and fostering innovation within engineering teams.

How does a principal software development engineer typically collaborate with other teams within the organization?

As a Principal Software Development Engineer, you will frequently work cross-functionally with product managers, designers, and other engineering teams to align technical solutions with business goals. You may also mentor junior engineers, participate in architectural reviews, and help drive the adoption of best practices across teams. This role often involves leading technical discussions, facilitating communication between stakeholders, and ensuring that projects are delivered efficiently and at a high standard. Collaborative skills and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly are essential for success in this position.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Software Development Engineer jobs?

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

Principal Software Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,936 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Principal Software Development Engineer

Fortinet, Inc.

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$200K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will:

  • Work with developers within the team and on other cross-functional projects, as well as project management to drive, develop, and maintain the product
  • Develop and maintain software components on current and future products
  • Hands on in bug fixing current products
  • Implement software features of high quality and on schedule
  • Integrate, maintain, and improve both 3rd-Party and proprietary code.
  • Design and implement core systems and frameworks, as well new features that build off them
  • Communicate effectively, both verbal and written

We Are Looking For:

  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in networking related software development
  • B.S. in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering; M.S. highly preferable
  • Strong C/C++ experience in Unix/Linux in environment are essential
  • Strong understanding of REST API semantics and their application in networking appliances
  • Experience in using libcurl for formulating REST API calls
  • Experience with JSON data objects and their creation and parsing semantics
  • Experience with multi process/thread programming using Posix and System 
  • Solid grasp of networking fundamentals, specifically TCP/IP networking, switching and routing
  • Solid understanding of principles of network management
  • Knowledge of general QA procedures and methodologies as well as software development fundamentals
  • Experience with embedded systems is a plus
  • Experience with networking principles is a plus
  • Experience with firewall configurations and operation is a plus

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $200,500 - $260,500. Fortinet offers employees a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), 11 paid holidays, vacation time, and sick time as well as a comprehensive leave program.

Wage ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, and job level. Exact salary offers will be determined by factors such as the candidate's subject knowledge, skill level, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.

All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program, Bonus eligibility is reviewed at time of hire and annually at the Company's discretion.

Why Join Us:
We encourage candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply. We offer a supportive work environment and a competitive Total Rewards package to support you with your overall health and financial well-being. Embark on a challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding career journey with Fortinet. Join us in bringing solutions that make a meaningful and lasting impact to our 660,000+ customers around the globe

Apply