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Principal Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

INA Solution Inc

Principal Software Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$127K - $171K/yr

Principal Software Engineer - Tucson, AZ (Onsite) Active Secret Clearance Required A leading aerospace & defense company is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to develop and maintain Windows-based ...

TCS

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$133K - $178K/yr

The selected Principal Software Engineer responsibilities will include the support of the GMD Weapons System (GWS) program as an individual contributor on the GMD Fire Control (GFC) product.

TCS

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$133K - $178K/yr

The selected Principal Software Engineer responsibilities will include the support of the GMD Weapons System (GWS) program as an individual contributor on the GMD Fire Control (GFC) product.

Alarm.com

Principal Software Engineer

Tysons Corner, VA · On-site

$135K - $182K/yr

Principal Software Engineer -- emPower Do you love working with connected devices, automation, and real-world systems? Have you automated your own home, built integrations across smart devices, or ...

Alarm.com

Principal Software Engineer

Mclean, VA

$136K - $183K/yr

Principal Software Engineer -- emPower Do you love working with connected devices, automation, and real-world systems? Have you automated your own home, built integrations across smart devices, or ...

Alarm.com

Principal Software Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$152K - $205K/yr

Principal Software Engineer -- emPower Do you love working with connected devices, automation, and real-world systems? Have you automated your own home, built integrations across smart devices, or ...

Alarm.com

Principal Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $208K/yr

Principal Software Engineer -- emPower Do you love working with connected devices, automation, and real-world systems? Have you automated your own home, built integrations across smart devices, or ...

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Principal Software Engineer information

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$60.5K

$160.9K

$231K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software 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.

How does a principal software engineer typically balance hands-on coding with leadership responsibilities?

Principal Software Engineers often split their time between technical contributions—such as designing system architecture and reviewing complex code—and guiding teams through mentorship, technical direction, and cross-functional collaboration. While they may not code as much as junior engineers, they remain highly involved in critical implementations and code reviews. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong time management, clear communication, and the ability to prioritize tasks that have the highest impact on project and team success.

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

To thrive as a Principal Software Engineer, you need deep expertise in software architecture, programming languages, and system design, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science or a related field. Advanced proficiency with development frameworks, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), and familiarity with DevOps tools and agile methodologies are typically required. Exceptional leadership, mentorship, and communication skills help facilitate cross-functional collaboration and guide technical teams. These skills are crucial for driving technical vision, ensuring scalable solutions, and fostering innovation within complex projects.

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

AspectPrincipal Software EngineerSenior Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in CS or related field; extensive experienceBachelor's or Master's in CS; several years of experience
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, strategic planning, cross-team collaborationDesign, develop, and troubleshoot software; mentorship
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, large enterprises, startupsMost industries, including tech, finance, healthcare

The main difference between a Principal Software Engineer and a Senior Software Engineer lies in their level of responsibility and scope. Principal Software Engineers typically lead technical strategy, influence architecture decisions, and mentor multiple teams, whereas Senior Software Engineers focus on coding, design, and individual project contributions. Both roles require strong technical skills, but the Principal role emphasizes leadership and strategic impact.

What is a principal software engineer?

A principal software engineer is in charge of software development. In this career, you guide the software design process and inspect software programs to make suggestions for improvements. Principal software engineers also process complex data and may need to enforce software design, development, and maintenance requirements. Your job requires a high level of technical knowledge and skills and a thorough understanding of the software development process. Your employer may require you to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in software development. Similar job titles include software architect and principal software developer.

How much does a principal software engineer get paid?

A principal software engineer typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually in the United States, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size. They often have advanced skills in software architecture, leadership, and technical expertise in programming languages and tools.
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Principal Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,936 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer

INA Solution Inc

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$127K - $171K/yr

Contractor

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

 
Principal Software Engineer – Tucson, AZ (Onsite)

Active Secret Clearance Required

A leading aerospace & defense company is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to develop and maintain Windows-based test equipment software supporting engineering, production, and sustainment environments.

Key Requirements:

  • Active (or obtainable) Secret Clearance & U.S. Citizenship
  • 8+ years of software development experience (5+ with advanced STEM degree)
  • Strong C# and C++ development using Microsoft Visual Studio
  • Experience with Windows applications, hardware/software integration, test equipment, and troubleshooting
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related STEM field
  • Ability to work 100% onsite in Tucson, AZ

Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, and maintain object-oriented software applications
  • Support test equipment, instrumentation, and production systems
  • Collaborate with software, electrical, systems, test, and manufacturing teams
  • Participate in development, integration, verification, production support, and sustainment
  • Lead technical efforts and mentor junior engineers as needed