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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

TCS

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$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 · On-site

$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

Senior Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

Huntsville, Alabama, United States TCS is searching for a Senior Principal Software Engineer to join our strong team of Engineers supporting our Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) customer in ...

TCS

Senior Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

Huntsville, Alabama, United States TCS is searching for a Senior Principal Software Engineer to join our strong team of Engineers supporting our Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) customer in ...

Tocaro Blue

Principal Software Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site +1

$126K - $169K/yr

Principal Software Engineer Are you looking to make a significant technical and organizational impact at a fast-growing, investor-backed AI/ML company? Do you thrive in senior technical leadership ...

Auria

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$115K/yr

Auria is looking to hire a Principal Software Engineer to support the C2BMC. This role is ONSITE in Huntsville, AL. This position is for a Software Engineer on the C2BMC program. The candidate will ...

Auria

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Auria is looking to hire a Principal Software Engineer to support the C2BMC. This role is ONSITE in Huntsville, AL. This position is for a Software Engineer on the C2BMC program. The candidate will ...

StoneX

Principal Software Engineer

Birmingham, AL · Hybrid

$155K - $185K/yr

As a Principal Engineer, you will be a key contributor to technical architecture, innovation, and the adoption of modern technologies including AI, while actively contributing to the design and ...

asrcfh

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$133K - $178K/yr

We are seeking highly motivated Software Engineers to support the continued development and sustainment of the U.S. Navy's Aegis Weapons System in Huntsville, AL. Responsibilities: Work in a ...

StoneX Group

Principal Software Engineer

Birmingham, AL · Hybrid

$155K - $185K/yr

As a Principal Engineer, you will be a key contributor to technical architecture, innovation, and the adoption of modern technologies including AI, while actively contributing to the design and ...

asrcfh

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

We are seeking highly motivated Software Engineers to support the continued development and sustainment of the U.S. Navy's Aegis Weapons System in Huntsville, AL. Responsibilities: Work in a ...

asrcfh

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

ASRC Agile Decision Sciences is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We ...

asrcfh

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$133K - $178K/yr

ASRC Agile Decision Sciences is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Software Engineer Jobs in Alabama

Principal Software Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$54.8K

$145.9K

$209.4K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Alabama is $145,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,400.00 and $164,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Principal Software Engineers?

Principal Software Engineers are highly experienced technical leaders responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing complex software systems. They set technical direction, mentor engineering teams, and often collaborate with stakeholders to align technology solutions with business goals. In addition to coding, they play a key role in establishing best practices, reviewing architectural decisions, and ensuring high-quality software delivery. Their expertise and leadership are critical in driving innovation and maintaining technical excellence within an organization.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Software Engineers and senior technical leaders in high-demand industries such as technology, finance, and cloud computing often earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in areas like distributed systems or machine learning, and relevant certifications. Compensation can include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Principal Software Engineers at large technology companies or in specialized fields such as machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities within high-demand environments.

What Is 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 do principal software engineers get paid?

Principal software engineers typically earn between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, with total compensation often including bonuses and stock options. Salaries vary based on experience, location, industry, and company size, with some earning over $200,000 in high-demand markets.

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

Principal Software Engineers at senior levels in large companies or with specialized skills such as machine learning or cloud architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. However, such high compensation is typically reserved for experienced professionals in high-cost-of-living areas or executive-level roles, and not common for entry- or mid-level positions.
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Principal Software Engineer jobs near you
Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

Davis Strategic Innovations Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Description Principal Software Engineer Location: Huntsville, AL Clearance: Secret Overview We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to join a team of qualified individuals supporting advanced defense systems development in Huntsville, AL. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline preferred from an accredited university and 5 years of related experience or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of experience. Experience developing software in C++ and Java.

Prior experience with Ethernet TCP/IP interfaces. Experience with Python or other scripting languages. Applicants must have a current active in-scope U.S

Government DoD issued Secret security clearance at the time of application which is required to start. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with Agile software development practices. Experience with CMake.

Experience with gRPC. Experience with gtest. Security+ Certification.

A current active in-scope U.S. Government DoD Top Secret security clearance.

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