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Principal Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL (NOW HIRING)

asrcfh

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

ASRC Agile Decision Sciences is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We ...

asrcfh

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$133K - $178K/yr

ASRC Agile Decision Sciences is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We ...

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All JobsPrincipal Software Engineer JobsPrincipal Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL

Principal Software Engineer information

See Madison, AL salary details

$54.2K

$144.2K

$207K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Madison, AL is $144,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,000.00 and $162,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much does a principal software engineer get paid?

A principal software engineer typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually in the United States, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size. They often have advanced skills in software architecture, leadership, and technical expertise in programming languages and tools.
More about Principal Software Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Principal Software Engineer jobs in Madison, AL? For Principal Software Engineer jobs in Madison, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Madison, AL are hiring for Principal Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Madison, AL with the most Principal Software Engineer job openings:
Principal Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineer job openings in Madison, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,195 per year, or $69.3 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer

asrcfh

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

ASRC Agile Decision Sciences is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We are currently seeking Software Engineers to join our team based in Huntsville, AL. Candidates will work in an Agile team environment where they will actively engage in sprints and other Agile process activities as well as software development and testing.

Required Qualifications:
•    Bachelor’s degree in STEM related field, and 8 years of related experience
•    Must have an Active Secret Security Clearance
•    Linux Operating System Experience
•    Object Oriented C++/Java/ Software Development experience

•    Embedded software development experience
•    Experience with CMake and Gtest
•    Must be able to support an in-person / closed-area work environment

Preferred Qualifications:
•    Experience using DevSecOps tools and methods (Jenkins, Ansible, Git/Gitlab) 
•    Experience using Agile Project management tools (Jira/Confluence)
•    Experience in Product Owner or Scrum Master roles
•    Prior experience with Missile Defense Agency (MDA) programs and/or systems
•    Knowledge of SysUML 
•    Security+ certification

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