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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

THOMSON REUTERS

Principal Software Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · Hybrid

$132.10K - $177.10K/yr

Principal Software Engineer The global capital markets are among the largest markets in the world valued at $50T+ and growing. Transactions in these markets are complex. Critical, nuanced legal terms ...

Actalent

Principal Software Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$60 - $64.91/hr

Principal Software Engineer We are seeking multiple Software Engineers and Software Team Leads with expertise in real-time embedded systems to support software development, integration, and testing ...

Rocket Companies

Principal Software Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$123.50K - $165.60K/yr

As a Principal Engineer within Client Experience (CX), you'll help shape and deliver Rocket ... They introduce and scale innovative solutions, including AI and automation throughout the software ...

Rock Connections

Principal Software Engineer

Detroit, MI

$133.60K - $179.20K/yr

As a Principal Engineer within Client Experience (CX), you'll help shape and deliver Rocket ... They introduce and scale innovative solutions, including AI and automation throughout the software ...

Eccalon, LLC

Principal Software Engineer- Onsite

Detroit, MI · On-site

$133.40K - $178.80K/yr

Eccalon LLC is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership across complex, large-scale software systems. This role involves driving architecture, influencing technical ...

New

Magna

Principal Software Engineer - Linux/BSP

Southfield, MI

$123.80K - $166K/yr

The Principal Software Engineer is responsible for developing embedded software including design and development for safety critical automotive computer vision-based applications. The candidate must ...

Amway

Principal Software Developer

Ada, MI · On-site

Amway Inc. is seeking a Principal Software Developer to build the 'Invisible Integration' backbone for a global ecosystem. The role involves hands-on execution in transforming legacy platforms into ...

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Principal Software Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$52.7K

$140.3K

$201.3K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Michigan is $140,271.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,700.00 and $157,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

More about Principal Software Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Principal Software Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Principal Software Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Software Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Software Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Principal Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Principal Software Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Software Engineer jobs in MI? For Principal Software Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineer job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,271 per year, or $67.4 per hour.
Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

Judge Group, Inc.

Sterling Heights, MI

$65 - $71/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Location: Sterling Heights, MI
Salary: $65.00 USD Hourly - $71.00 USD Hourly
Description: The Judge group direct client is currently seeking a Principal Software Engineer.
Title: Principal Software Engineer
Preferred location: Sterling Heights, MI
Duration: 12+ Months
This job will have the following responsibilities:
We have multiple openings for individuals with experience in software development, integration and testing of real-time, embedded software. We are looking for both individual contributors and team leaders.
You will work on contracts/work directives under the direction of a Software Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead.
These positions will report to a section manager within the Combat Mission Systems (CMS) Electrical Software and Controls (ESC) Functional Engineering Directorate and will be matrixed to the Software Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead.
Engineers in these positions will be responsible for the overall software efforts on their assigned contract(s) and/or work directive(s).
The scope generally involves software development, integration and testing activities within the BAE Systems Platforms and Services sector, but it may at times extend to include oversight of software development executed externally through subcontract(s).
The individual contributor positions will work closely with the team leaders; the team leader position is approximately 60% individual contributor role of software design and development and 40% software technical project leadership.
Required Team Leader Skills include:
Candidate able to obtain a US Secret Security Clearance
C and C++ programming
Python programming
Development of software applications on Linux Operating Systems or bare-metal real-time application development
Object Oriented design and development experience
Familiarity with Ethernet communications.
Exceptional communication (verbal and written) skills are a MUST
Ability to solve basic technical design and development problems
Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with customers to solve technical problems
Ability to travel to customer sites
By providing your phone number, you consent to: (1) receive automated text messages and calls from the Judge Group, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively "Judge") to such phone number regarding job opportunities, your job application, and for other related purposes. Message & data rates apply and message frequency may vary. Consistent with Judge's Privacy Policy, information obtained from your consent will not be shared with third parties for marketing/promotional purposes. Reply STOP to opt out of receiving telephone calls and text messages from Judge and HELP for help.
Contact:
This job and many more are available through The Judge Group. Please apply with us today!

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