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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO

$140K - $188K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that support the development, optimization, and sustained performance of products produced across ...

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$140K - $188K/yr

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading engineering activities that support the development, optimization, and sustained performance of products produced across ...

Nutrien

Principal Software Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$176K/yr

Principal Software Engineer Requisition ID: 32669 Location: Loveland, CO, USA, 80538 Workplace Type: On-Site Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level Job Type: Full Time Nutrien is a leading provider of ...

SAIC

Principal Software Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · Hybrid

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_HYBRID Description SAIC seeks a highly experienced and energetic Principal Software Engineer to support the US Space Force, Space Systems Command, in performing operational maintenance and ...

DSC Resources

Principal Software Engineer

Louisville, CO

$150K - $205K/yr

Principal Software Engineer - Data & Architecture US-based only | No visa sponsorship | No third-party agencies We're seeking a Principal Engineer to establish data architecture excellence across our ...

DSC Resources

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · Remote

$150K - $210K/yr

Principal Java & .Net Software Engineer Remote - US-Based Only No visa sponsorship | No third-party agencies ** Must have Java and .Net experience ** We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer with ...

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All JobsPrincipal Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Software Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Principal Software Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$63.6K

$169.2K

$242.9K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Colorado is $169,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $142,000.00 and $190,300.00 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

Avenue Technologies and Commodities, Inc.

Aurora, CO • On-site

$137K - $184K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

About the Opportunity
Avenue Technologies is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to support technical, engineering, and program teams in a hands-on environment.
What You Will Do
  • Design, develop, integrate, and maintain software applications that support engineering, production, or test environments.
  • Develop object-oriented applications, libraries, and drivers using the required tools and programming languages.
  • Troubleshoot software issues, integrate with hardware or instrumentation, and support system-level applications.
  • Work with cross-functional engineering teams to derive requirements and deliver reliable software solutions.

Helpful Skills
  • software development
  • requirements

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM or related field is preferred or required based on the role.
  • Relevant experience in the applicable technical discipline.
  • Strong communication, ownership, and problem-solving skills.
  • Secret clearance or ability to meet the role's clearance requirements.

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