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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

The Principal Software Engineer will oversee the solution architecture and development of the backend API components of the platform that powers our digital assets. To be successful the candidate ...

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$129K - $174K/yr

Title and Summary Principal Software Engineer About Mastercard Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy ...

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

Title and Summary Principal Software Engineer About Mastercard Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy ...

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$129K - $174K/yr

Title and Summary Principal Software Engineer About Mastercard Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy ...

Principal Software Engineer (Go)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

As a Stable Kernel Principal Software Engineer , you play an essential role in setting our portfolio of world-class clients up for success through the development and delivery of their most ...

Principal Software Engineer (Go)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

As a Stable Kernel Principal Software Engineer , you play an essential role in setting our portfolio of world-class clients up for success through the development and delivery of their most ...

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

We are looking for a Principal Software Engineer to provide deep technical leadership on this platform and to translate complex content, delivery, and orchestration requirements into a coherent ...

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$129K - $174K/yr

We are looking for a Principal Software Engineer to provide deep technical leadership on this platform and to translate complex content, delivery, and orchestration requirements into a coherent ...

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

The Principal Software Engineer will oversee the solution architecture and development of the backend API components of the platform, providing technical leadership through coaching and mentorship to ...

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

About The Role As a Principal Software Engineer at Relay, you'll be responsible for building the next generation payments network for an industry that has seen little innovation in the last 50 years.

New

Principal Software Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$129K - $174K/yr

About The Role As a Principal Software Engineer at Relay, you'll be responsible for building the next generation payments network for an industry that has seen little innovation in the last 50 years.

New

Principal Software Engineer

Norcross, GA

$126K - $169K/yr

JOB PURPOSE We are looking for a Principal Software Engineer in Test who treats quality not as a gatekeeping function but as a property of the entire software delivery system. This engineer embeds ...

Principal Software Engineer

Norcross, GA · On-site

$126K - $169K/yr

JOB PURPOSE We are looking for a Principal Software Engineer in Test who treats quality not as a gatekeeping function but as a property of the entire software delivery system. This engineer embeds ...

Principal Software Engineer

Columbus, GA · On-site +1

$123K - $170K/yr

Salesforce Administrator Certification or any other Salesforce certifications Principal Duties ... software solutions with business objectives • Introduce and train teams in advanced programming ...

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Showing results 1-20

Principal Software Engineer information

See Georgia salary details

$51.1K

$135.9K

$195.1K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Georgia is $135,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,000.00 and $152,800.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Principal Software Engineer jobs in Georgia? For Principal Software Engineer jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Principal Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Principal Software Engineer job openings:
Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

GoTo Foods

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$129K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Go To Foods is on a journey to build out an industry leading Digital Platform which will power its 7 existing brands and enable smooth integration of future brands. The Principal Software Engineer will oversee the solution architecture and development of the backend API components of the platform that powers our digital assets. To be successful the candidate will require excellent communication skills, and ability to explain technology solutions with diverse partners. This role will provide technical leadership through coaching and mentorship to other team members and working with product and leadership towards on-time quality delivery.