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

L.W. Allen & Altronex

Software Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

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 ...

i3 Product Development

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 ...

i3 Product Development

Software Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site +1

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 ...

ETC

Software Engineer

Middleton, WI · On-site

We are looking for Software Engineers to join our R&D team. If you have a Technical Bachelor's degree preferably in Computer Science or Computer Engineering, a passion for creativity, and to work on ...

UW Credit Union

Software Engineer I

Madison, WI · Hybrid

$87K/mo

A Software Engineer I is a software professional who enjoys solving unique and challenging problems in creative ways. This person thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative, team-oriented environment and ...

New

UW Credit Union

Software Engineer I

Madison, WI · Hybrid

A Software Engineer I is a software professional who enjoys solving unique and challenging problems in creative ways. This person thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative, team-oriented environment and ...

New

UW Credit Union

Software Engineer I

Madison, WI · On-site

$87K - $108K/yr

A Software Engineer I is a software professional who enjoys solving unique and challenging problems in creative ways. This person thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative, team-oriented environment and ...

New

Accuray

Software Engineer

Madison, WI

Contribute to sustaining engineering by troubleshooting, participating in root-cause analysis, and resolving issues found in new or existing functionality. Software Design & Architecture (Make the ...

Accuray Incorporated

Software Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

Contribute to sustaining engineering by troubleshooting, participating in root-cause analysis, and resolving issues found in new or existing functionality. Software Design & Architecture (Make the ...

Kellton

Software Engineer Opportunity

Madison, WI · On-site

Hi - My direct client is looking for a Software Engineer. If you're interested, please email me your resume and we can discuss the role further. Madison, WI (Onsite) Consulting - W2 only. Project ...

New

Ametek

Senior Software Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

The Senior Software Engineer acts as a recognized technical expert and a reference for complex software components. The Senior Software Engineer contributes through deep technical expertise, handson ...

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

Principal Software Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$61K

$162.2K

$232.8K

How much do principal software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineer in Madison, WI is $162,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,000.00 and $182,400.00 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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What job categories do people searching Principal Software Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Software Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
Principal Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $162,188 per year, or $78 per hour.

Software Engineer

L.W. Allen & Altronex

Madison, WI

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Company Description

L.W. ALLEN, Inc is a factory-authorized distributor for several major lines of pump and electrical control equipment. We also manufacture control systems under the ALTRONEX brand name. Proven, trusted equipment and service since 1961!

Job Description

Position Summary :

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 applications. The software engineer will work on cross-functional team projects, as well as individual projects.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Work as part of a cross-functional team to understand business needs, develop and refine requirements and design and develop software to meet business objectives.
  • Provide accurate estimates for software development work.
  • Follow disciplined, professional software engineering and project management processes to ensure successful deliveries.
  • Analyze, modify, and maintain moderately complex processes and code.
  • Code, deploy, and maintain applications.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Job Requirements/Skill Specifications: Education

  • B.S. degree in Computer Science or related discipline.

Preferred Experience

  • Strong background in Object-Oriented programming techniques.
  • Experience with several major modern computer languages/platforms such as Cache ObjectScript, Java, Python, SQL
  • Experience with data modeling tools such as ERWin and XMLSpy.
  • Knowledge of HL7, XML, XSLT, WSDL, SAML, and XACML.
  • Project management experience.

Skills

  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent problem solving ability.
  • Good teamwork skills.
  • Customer service orientation.
  • Knowledge of standards, principles, and techniques of software engineering and software project management.
  • Willingness to learn new languages/platforms as needed.
  • Strong database skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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