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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chipton Ross

Principal Software Engineer 3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$171.25/hr

Principal Software Engineer 3: * Requires a Bachelors degree in STEM with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience; Master's degree in Engineering with 3 years of experience; or 1 Year with a ...

KBR

Principal Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site +1

$143K - $192K/yr

Principal Software Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR is seeking an experienced Principal Software Engineer to support the MSEIT contract at Space Systems Command (SSC). This role combines ...

KBR, Inc.

Principal Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$143K - $192K/yr

Principal Software Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR is seeking an experienced Principal Software Engineer to support the MSEIT contract at Space Systems Command (SSC). This role combines ...

SAIC

Principal Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$160K - $200K/yr

Your Role As a Principal Software Engineer , you will be a key technical contributor supporting the full software development lifecycle (SDLC) for strategic RF and VLF communication systems. You will ...

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All JobsPrincipal Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Software Engineer Jobs in California

Principal Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$59.7K

$158.8K

$228K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in California is $158,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,200.00 and $178,600.00 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 3

Principal Software Engineer 3

Chipton Ross

San Diego, CA • On-site

$171.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job #218981
Chipton-Ross is seeking a Principal Software Engineer 3 for a contract opportunity in San Diego, CA.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
This position can be filled at the Principal Software Engineer or the SR. Principal Software Engineer depending on years of experience and qualifications.
Principal Software Engineer 3:
  • Requires a Bachelors degree in STEM with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience; Master's degree in Engineering with 3 years of experience; or 1 Year with a PhD.

SR. Principal Software Engineer 3:
  • A Bachelors degree in STEM with a minimum of 8 years of professional experience; Master's degree in Engineering with 6 years of experience; or 4 Year with a PhD.

  • Proven experience with National Instruments LabVIEW data acquisition systems and programming.
  • Experience developing measurement and test routines in the LabVIEW environment.
  • Defines development test plans and methods to ensure a robust design is achieved and validates the design against customer, internal and regulatory / government requirements.
  • Has strong analytical skills and the ability organize/prioritize job assignments and tasks.
  • Is able to communicate clearly and effectively to cross-functional team members. Has strong writing skills and is proficient with Microsoft Office tools.
  • Is able to document design and analysis reports as well as test reports.
  • Is self-motivated and able to work without close supervision to achieve tasks on time and budget.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and have an active DoD Secret Clearance.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
We are seeking a LabVIEW/TestStand Software Engineer to develop innovative LabVIEW-centric solutions for production test systems supporting our CNI product line. In this role, the engineer will be responsible for:
  • Design, development, deployment, and support of LabVIEW programs and test instrumentation throughout all project life cycle phases
  • Translation of system requirements, specifications and goal-oriented objectives into system designs
  • Interfacing with end users and customers to refine requirements and iterate designs; generation of test plans and documentation to verify compliance to system level requirements
  • Production of software documentation to support software release packages
  • Time management and flexibility to support multiple programs
  • Presentation of assigned work at program technical reviews, proposals, or other technical meetings.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (DESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • Applies research to the planning, design, development and testing of LabVIEW algorithms, test environments and systems for use in space and military applications. Is able to develop design solutions to meet difficult performance requirements.
  • Possesses strong interpersonal skills to work effectively within a development team to understand system level interdependencies and design constraints.
  • CLAD, CLD, or CLA LabVIEW Certifications.
  • Experience working in a cross functional environment (mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software engineering, systems engineering, test engineering, production engineering, etc.) to translate customer requirements and functional block diagrams into realized control models. Review and update control system requirements to meet system level performance objectives. Conduct trade studies and identify and present alternate design options.

REQUIRED EDUCATION
BS degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) is required.
School must be accredited.
HOURS
9/80A schedule.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Applicants responding to this position will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements by currently possessing the ability to view classified government information.
  • Employment will be contingent on clearing a drug screen and background check. Both must clear prior to start date.
  • Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

For more information, please apply or contact:
Anthony Ho 800.927.9318 x256
anthony.ho@chiptonross.com
Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.
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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983

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