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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Arizona (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 ...

New

Citizens

Principal Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$134K - $179K/yr

Principal Software Engineer As a Principal Software Engineer, you will partner with engineering teams and architecture leaders to deliver highquality, forwardthinking technology solutions. This role ...

Citizens

Principal Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$134K - $179K/yr

Principal Software Engineer As a Principal Software Engineer, you will partner with engineering teams and architecture leaders to deliver highquality, forwardthinking technology solutions. This role ...

Komatsu

Principal Software Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$116K - $155K/yr

Apply now Principal Software Engineer Posting Start Date: 6/16/26 Job Location (Short): Tucson, Arizona, USA, 85706 Requisition ID: 32777 Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position Shape the Future of Mining ...

Komatsu

Principal Software Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$125K - $168K/yr

Komatsu is a world leader in manufacturing construction, mining, forestry, and industrial heavy equipment, and they are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to help shape the future of their ...

Komatsu

Principal Software Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$116K - $155K/yr

Principal Software Engineer Posting Start Date: 6/16/26 Job Location (Short): Tucson, Arizona, USA, 85706 Requisition ID: 32777 Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position Shape the Future of Mining with ...

Moove

Principal Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$134K - $179K/yr

Moove AV is looking for a Principal Software Engineer to serve as the founding technical owner of a brand-new, greenfield platform for autonomous mobility operations, powered by GenAI, LLMs, and real ...

New

Sprouts Farmers Market

Principal Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$134K - $179K/yr

Overview The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for driving the design, architecture, and delivery of large-scale AI-powered systems across retail platforms. This ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Principal Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$134K - $179K/yr

Overview The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for driving the design, architecture, and delivery of large-scale AI-powered systems across retail platforms. This ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Principal Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$134K - $179K/yr

Overview The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for driving the design, architecture, and delivery of large-scale AI-powered systems across retail platforms. This ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Software Engineer Jobs in Arizona

Principal Software Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$56.4K

$150K

$215.3K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Arizona is $149,975.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,800.00 and $168,700.00 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

INA Solution Inc

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$127K - $171K/yr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

New

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