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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

TMS

Principal Software Engineer - PAM

Coppell, TX · On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Job Title: Principal Software Engineer - PAM Duration: 6 months contract to hire Location: Coppell, TX (Hybrid) Visa: GC & USC Only Exp: 10+ years minimum The PAM Engineer is responsible for ...

Solera

Principal Software Engineer

Westlake, TX

$129K - $173K/yr

Principal Engineer - Agentic AI The Role A Principal Software Engineer's roles includeproviding technical leadership, defining software architecture, mentoring other engineers, and overseeing ...

Cadence

Sr. Principal Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$124K - $171K/yr

They are seeking a highly motivated Sr. Principal Software Engineer to join the Modus R&D engineering team, where the role will involve designing, developing, debugging, and supporting Design-for ...

Lynx

Principal Software Engineer (Test)

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$129K - $173K/yr

They are seeking a Principal Software Engineer (Test) to contribute to the development and validation of advanced software systems for military aviation. Responsibilities : • support the ...

GDIT

Principal Software Engineer

San Antonio, TX

$121K - $163K/yr

The Software Engineer Principal must have experience with: * Providing technical leadership and guidance to cross-functional teams (including developers, security engineers, and operations staff) on ...

Atom Computing

Principal Software Engineer

Austin, TX · 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 ...

Fidelity Investments

Principal Software Engineer

Westlake, TX · On-site

$129K - $173K/yr

Principal Software Engineer Note: Fidelity is not providing immigration sponsorship for this position The Role We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to join a Fidelity Technology team and ...

Atom Computing

Principal Software Engineer

Austin, TX

$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

Austin, TX · 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 ...

Solera

Principal Software Engineer

Westlake, TX · On-site

$129K - $173K/yr

Principal Engineer - Agentic AI The Role A Principal Software Engineer's roles include providing technical leadership, defining software architecture, mentoring other engineers, and overseeing ...

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All JobsPrincipal Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Software Engineer Jobs in Texas

Principal Software Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$56.4K

$149.9K

$215.2K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Texas is $149,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,800.00 and $168,600.00 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
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineer job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,937 per year, or $72.1 per hour.
Principal Software Engineer - PAM

Principal Software Engineer - PAM

TMS

Coppell, TX • On-site

$65 - $70/hr

Contractor

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Principal Software Engineer - PAM
Duration: 6 months contract to hire
Location: Coppell, TX (Hybrid)
Visa: GC & USC Only
Exp: 10+ years minimum

The PAM Engineer is responsible for implementation and configuration of BeyondTrust Password Safe including development and maintenance of plugins, connectors, and integrations with various systems. Onboarding accounts/systems with automated credential rotation and session monitoring. Identify and remediate risks related to interactive logins, legacy systems, and service account lockouts.

  • 5+ years of experience in PAM engineering, with 2+ years focused on BeyondTrust Password Safe.
  • Strong scripting skills (PowerShell, UIPath, etc.) and experience with automation workflows.

  • Deep understanding of identity governance, privileged access controls, and audit framework