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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Fargo, ND (NOW HIRING)

SAP Cloud Integration Engineer II

Fargo, ND · On-site

$102K - $137K/yr

Job Summary The SAP Cloud Integration Engineer II designs, develops, and supports enterprise integration solutions using SAP Cloud Integration and SAP BTP services. This role involves building and ...

SAP Cloud Integration Engineer II

Fargo, ND · On-site

$102K - $137K/yr

Job Summary The SAP Cloud Integration Engineer II designs, develops, and supports enterprise integration solutions using SAP Cloud Integration and SAP BTP services. This role involves building and ...

Administrative Assistant

Fargo, ND · On-site

$22.76 - $28.31/hr

Serve as administrative assistant to the principal and as facilitator for the school/public being ... Coordinate any physical set up needs with the Lead Custodian/Building Engineer. Maintains school ...

Administrative Assistant

Fargo, ND · On-site

$22.76 - $28.31/hr

Serve as administrative assistant to the principal and as facilitator for the school/public being ... Coordinate any physical set up needs with the Lead Custodian/Building Engineer. Maintains school ...

Showing results 21-28

Principal Software Engineer information

See Fargo, ND salary details

$59.4K

$158K

$226.8K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Fargo, ND is $158,011.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,500.00 and $177,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 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 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.

How much does a principal software engineer get paid?

A principal software engineer typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often have advanced skills in software architecture, leadership, and technical expertise in programming languages and tools.

What job categories do people searching Principal Software Engineer jobs in Fargo, ND look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Software Engineer jobs in Fargo, ND are:

Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineer job openings in Fargo, ND as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,011 per year, or $76 per hour.

Lead Engineer - Water Resources

Apex Engineering Group

Fargo, ND • On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Office Location: Fargo, ND
Primary responsibilities include managing a team of engineers, technicians and support staff on water resource projects from the planning phase through design and construction. A Lead Engineer shall be capable of independently managing projects and collaboratively contributing to the design and development of project plans and specifications while working with and mentoring project team members. Lead Engineers typically report to a sector leader or principal of the firm. Additional responsibilities include general marketing of the firm and various business development activities.
Typical Tasks and Duties:
  • Provide professional engineering services for clients by providing: studies, planning, design, specifications, plans, reports, construction observation and project management.
  • Communicate frequently and effectively with clients, supervisors and project team members on a consistent basis by providing updates and progress during all phases of projects
  • Attend company meetings, project meetings and client meetings on a regular basis.
  • This position will be responsible to lead the preparing of proposals and participating in interviews for securing work for the firm. Responsibilities for business development will increase with experience and mentoring by senior staff.
  • This position will require the initiative to think independently and make rational judgment calls.
  • Provide direction and work with engineering technicians and other team members on the development of project plans and specifications.
  • Work and coordinate with other engineering departments on complex multi-discipline projects.
  • Understand and follow company employee handbook and mandated safety policies.
  • Perform responsibilities in a conscientious, legal and ethical manner with a strong attention to detail.
  • Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.
  • Participate in professional organizations and community leadership programs.
  • Travel and out of town stays may be required; may work overtime especially during the construction season.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering required.
  • Professional Engineers License preferred or ability to be licensed within 6-12 months required.
  • 5-15 Years of experience working as a Civil Engineer in the water resources and storm water management field.
  • Strong project management skills and experience is essential for this position.
  • Construction management experience is also required.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are a prerequisite.
  • Must be detail orientated, self-motivated with strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Flexible working style and willingness to occasionally modify personal schedules as required to meet deadlines and/or client needs.
  • Proficient using Microsoft Windows/Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
  • Experience in watershed modeling, storm water collection system design, pump station design, sizing and selecting equipment, preparing civil design drawings and preparing cost opinions is a plus.
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D or other CADD-based civil design software is a plus.
  • A valid driver's license is required or the ability to obtain one.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to sit and operate a computer under normal ergonomic office conditions.
  • Required to work in an outdoors environment during construction season.
  • May require prolonged periods of standing and walking to perform some of the typical tasks and duties associated with construction observation and surveying.
  • Must work scheduled and required hours.
  • Required to lift objects or containers weighing 50-lbs.

Benefits:
We're looking for experience, entrepreneurs and enthusiasm. Apex Engineering Group believes that every employee plays an important role in our company's success and that is why we strive to provide our employees with a benefits program that rewards them for their hard work and dedication they put forth everyday.
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  1. Performance-based bonuses
  2. Health, dental, and vision insurance
  3. Life insurance
  4. 401(k) plan with employer match and profit-sharing contribution
  5. Paid parental leave
  6. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
  7. Paid time off
  8. Short- and long-term disability coverage
  9. Employee wellness program

Base Salary Pay Range: $95k - $130k (Actual base pay is dependent on several factors, including experience, education, licensure, job location, and internal equity.)
EOE/AA
Please email [email protected] with any questions.