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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

WI · On-site

$205.20 - $360.80/hr

Senior Principal, AI Software Engineer - Agentic & Industry Solutions Genesys empowers organizations worldwide to create better customer experiences through AI-powered experience orchestration. As a ...

The Software Engineer is an individual contributor within a team, responsible for analysis, design, programming, testing, documentation, and deployment of software for data and user interface ...

Senior Software Engineer(C++) Experience: - Min 8+ Years Location: - Milwaukee WI(5 days/Week) Senior Software Engineer responsible for developing and enhancing MRI software applications using C ...

Senior Software Engineer(C++) Experience: - Min 8+ Years Location: - Milwaukee WI(5 days/Week) Senior Software Engineer responsible for developing and enhancing MRI software applications using C ...

As Principal SRE - define meaningful SLIs, SLOs for owned services; tracks error budgets and burn ... What you bring: 15+ years of experience in SRE, Software engineering and architecture in public ...

J. Keller as a Software Engineer and help build innovative, customer-facing web applications that support critical business operations and deliver exceptional user experiences. In this role, you'll ...

Software Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

As a Software Engineer, you will join a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, and problem-solvers working together under one roof to turn ideas into real, functioning products. Our projects ...

As a Software Engineer, you will join a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, and problem-solvers working together under one roof to turn ideas into real, functioning products. Our projects ...

Job Summary - Software Engineer - Develop, improve, and maintain distributed, cloud-ready microservices using Java Spring (Spring Boot, Spring Cloud, Spring Integration, Spring Data). - Build and ...

Showing results 21-40

Principal Software Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$61.1K

$162.4K

$233.2K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Wisconsin is $162,442.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,300.00 and $182,700.00 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 Wisconsin? For Principal Software Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Principal Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Principal Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,442 per year, or $78.1 per hour.

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Lund Boats

Fond Du Lac, WI

$103K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Are you ready for what's next?

Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond. Brunswick believes "Next Never Rests," and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation.

Innovation is the heart of Brunswick. See how your contributions will help transform vision into reality.

Position Overview:

As a Principal Embedded Software Engineer, you will be part of a growing team that writes applications using C/C++ and Python code that executes in electronic systems on boats for interfacing with existing CAN based modules, handheld smart devices and cloud services.

At Brunswick, we have passion for our work and a distinct ability to deliver.

Essential Functions:

  • Architect, design, develop and maintain software applications on Embedded platforms.

  • Use production development tools and practices including the use of Code Composer Studio, SVN, Dev Ops, Git.

  • Follow company coding style, use of best practices and unit testing.

  • Participate in and eventually lead small groups through software development cycles.

  • Author code for Bluetooth Low Energy, Wi-Fi and Cellular communications.

  • Design code for cloud interfaces

Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets/experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science or Electrical/Computer Engineering.

  • 8 or more years of demonstrated experience in Embedded programming with leadership qualities.

  • A passion for software development, electronics, communications, and engines control systems technology.

  • Ability to work in and around watercraft.

  • Applied understanding of:

    • Socket CAN

    • C/C++

    • Python

    • Embedded Linux

    • RTOS

    • BlueZ Bluetooth Stack

    • Wi-Fi, HTTPS, SSL, TCP/IP, MQTT, FTP

The anticipated pay range for this position is $103,000 - $144,000 annually. The actual base pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors including job- related knowledge/skills, relevant experience, business needs, and geographic location. In addition to base pay, this position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus. At Brunswick, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the salary range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the specifics of the candidate's qualifications and the business context.

This position is eligible to participate in Brunswick's comprehensive and high-quality benefits offerings, including medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, 401k (up to 4% match), Health Savings Account (with company contribution), well-being program, product purchase discounts and much more. Details about our benefits can be found here.

Next is Now!


We value growth and development, recognizing that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.

Brunswick is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is key to innovation and inspiration and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hrsharedservices@brunswick.comfor support.

For more information about EEO laws, - click here

Brunswick Corporation participates in E-Verify as part of our commitment to a lawful and transparent hiring process. For additional information click here: https://www.brunswick.com/e-verify.

Brunswick and Workday Privacy Policies

Brunswick does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors. For help, please contact our support team at: hrsharedservices@brunswick.com or 866-278-6942.

All job offers will come to you via the candidate portal you create when applying through a posted position through https:///www.brunswick.com/careers. If you are ever unsure about what is being required of you during the application process or its source, please contact HR Shared Services at 866-278-6942 or HRSharedServices@brunswick.com.

#Brunswick Corporation - Mercury Marine