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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$140K - $188K/yr

The Principal Software Engineer acts as a software architect for the AC&M R&D organization and the development lead for patient monitors used in surgical environments. They will collaborate with ...

Atom Computing

Principal Software Engineer

Boulder, CO

$180K - $220K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership for the software platform that orchestrates our quantum computers. In this role, you'll set the technical direction for a ...

Atom Computing

Principal Software Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership for the software platform that orchestrates our quantum computers. In this role, you'll set the technical direction for a ...

Sovrn

Principal Software Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $187K/yr

Make (and Keep) more money , so they control their own destiny About the Role We're looking for a Principal Software Engineer with deep roots in adtech infrastructure and a genuine conviction about ...

Sovrn

Principal Software Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site +1

$140K - $187K/yr

Make (and Keep) more money , so they control their own destiny About the Role We're looking for a Principal Software Engineer with deep roots in adtech infrastructure and a genuine conviction about ...

ServiceTitan

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$139K - $186K/yr

Over 50,000 people depend on our software to perform all their daily activities. We are looking for ... Principal Engineer We're looking for someone to lead all technical aspects of an engineering team ...

ServiceTitan

Principal Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Over 50,000 people depend on our software to perform all their daily activities. We are looking for ... Principal Engineer We're looking for someone to lead all technical aspects of an engineering team ...

FusionAuth

Principal Software Engineer

Broomfield, CO · On-site +1

$225K - $270K/yr

Experience: 12+ years of professional software engineering, including 5+ years focused on identity, authentication, or security, with meaningful time at the principal, staff, or architect level.

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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 17, 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

Principal Software Engineer

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Lone Tree, CO • On-site

$165K - $226K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Sierra Nevada Corporation rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Do you enjoy developing new products and services? Join us! Our Software Engineers work in an agile, collective environment. As a Principal Software Engineer, you will provide technical leadership and strategic direction for the development and optimization of advanced software systems for aerospace applications. You will lead major projects, mentor engineering teams, and drive innovation to achieve superior software performance.
The ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, it is a leading prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator for innovative, high-performance ISR and aviation systems. Its end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities encompass design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training and complete logistics support. IAS tailors solutions to customer cost, performance, and schedule requirements and designs to consistently exceed expectations - with an unrivaled record of on time and on (or under) budget deliveries.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide technical leadership and direction for the development of advanced software systems.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure software meets performance, quality, and regulatory standards.
  • Lead the creation and maintenance of detailed software documentation, including design specifications and user manuals.
  • Mentor and guide engineering teams on technical best practices and innovation.
  • Conduct high-level code reviews and provide strategic feedback.
  • Define and implement software requirements and specifications in collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Drive major continuous improvement initiatives to enhance software performance and reliability.
  • Represent the software engineering function in high-level strategic meetings and decision-making processes.

Qualifications You Must Have:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred.
  • 14+ years of experience in experience in software development.
  • Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
  • Expert proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python.
  • Extensive leadership experience in software development.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of engineering principles and practices.
  • Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams.
  • An active Secret with the eligibility to obtain a Top Secret / Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance is required.

Qualifications We Prefer:
  • Expertise in advanced software technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, cloud computing).
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems.
  • Significant experience in the Aerospace and Defense industry.
  • Understanding of industry standard software languages such as C, C#, C++, HTML, Java, Python, and Bash.
  • Experience with software tools for requirements tracking, code reviews, static analysis, library and artifact repository, and automated build.
  • Knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile/Scrum, Waterfall, and Spiral.
  • Proficient with data structures.
  • Experience using the Open Mission System messaging protocol and Universal Command and Control Interface standards.
  • Experience supporting mission system architectures and capabilities

Essential Functions:
  • Ability to work on a computer for extended periods.
  • Hand/finger dexterity for coding and testing.
  • Ability to work in a hybrid environment with occasional travel.

This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs.
Estimated Starting Salary Range: $165,010.21 - $226,889.04. Compensation varies depending on a wide array of factors, such as candidates' key skills, relevant work experience, and education/training/certifications. The disclosed range estimate may be adjusted for any applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled.
SNC offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.
SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.
Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.
SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We're known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation's most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team!
SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.

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