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Principal Software Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

INA Solution Inc

Principal Software Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$127K - $171K/yr

Principal Software Engineer - Tucson, AZ (Onsite) Active Secret Clearance Required A leading ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related ...

Northern Trust

Principal, Software Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

They are seeking a highly experienced Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and hands-on execution across complex, cloud-native software initiatives, while mentoring and ...

Northern Trust

Principal, Software Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Role Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and hands-on execution across complex, cloud-native software initiatives. This role ...

Northern Trust

Principal, Software Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Role Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and handson execution across complex, cloudnative software initiatives. This role combines ...

Northern Trust

Principal, Software Engineering

Naperville, IL · On-site

$134K - $180K/yr

Role Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and handson execution across complex, cloudnative software initiatives. This role combines ...

Chipton Ross

Principal Software Engineer 3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$171.25/hr

Master's degree in Engineering with 3 years of experience; or 1 Year with a PhD. SR. Principal Software Engineer 3: * A Bachelors degree in STEM with a minimum of 8 years of professional experience;

SAIC

Principal Software Engineer

NC · Remote

$138K - $185K/yr

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in full-stack software engineering, cloud infrastructure ... Serve as Senior Principal Software Engineer providing technical leadership across Navy network ...

New

Aegon

Principal Software Engineering

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$132K - $177K/yr

Summary The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for defining and driving enterprise-scale architecture, engineering strategy, and delivery excellence across modern ...

Aegon

Principal Software Engineering

Denver, CO

$139K - $186K/yr

Summary The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for defining and driving enterprise-scale architecture, engineering strategy, and delivery excellence across modern ...

Aegon

Principal Software Engineering

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$136K - $182K/yr

Summary The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for defining and driving enterprise-scale architecture, engineering strategy, and delivery excellence across modern ...

Transamerica

Principal Software Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Summary The Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for defining and driving enterprise-scale architecture, engineering strategy, and delivery excellence across modern ...

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All JobsPrincipal Software Engineering Jobs

Principal Software Engineering information

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$60.5K

$160.9K

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How much do principal software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal software engineering in the United States is $160,936.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,000.00 and $181,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Principal Software Engineers in large tech companies or specialized fields such as machine learning or cloud infrastructure 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-growth organizations.

What is a Principal Software Engineer?

A Principal Software Engineer is a senior-level technical expert responsible for leading complex software projects, setting technical direction, and mentoring engineering teams. They often make high-impact architectural decisions, influence engineering best practices, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable and reliable solutions. In addition to hands-on coding, they play a key role in strategic planning and innovation within an organization. This position typically requires extensive experience in software development and strong leadership skills.

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 advanced programming expertise, deep architectural knowledge, and extensive experience in software development, usually evidenced by a degree in computer science or a related field. Mastery of development frameworks, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), and familiarity with tools such as CI/CD pipelines and version control systems are essential, along with relevant certifications. Leadership, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for designing scalable solutions, mentoring teams, and driving technical vision that aligns with organizational goals.

Can you make $500,000 as a software engineer?

Principal software engineers at large tech companies or in specialized roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying industries or companies. Compensation varies widely based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

How does a Principal Software Engineer typically balance hands-on coding with leadership responsibilities?

As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll often split your time between designing and reviewing complex technical solutions and guiding engineering teams through architectural decisions. While you may still write critical code, a significant portion of your role involves mentoring other engineers, influencing technical direction, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure project alignment. This balance allows you to drive technical excellence while fostering team growth and supporting organizational goals. Effective time management and clear communication are key to succeeding in this multifaceted position.

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.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Principal Software Engineers and senior engineering roles in high-demand industries often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in areas like cloud computing or machine learning, and often in large tech companies or specialized sectors. Compensation can also include bonuses, stock options, and other benefits, depending on the company and location.
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Principal Software Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,936 per year, or $77.4 per hour.
Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

INA Solution Inc

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$127K - $171K/yr

Contractor

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

 
Principal Software Engineer – Tucson, AZ (Onsite)

Active Secret Clearance Required

A leading aerospace & defense company is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to develop and maintain Windows-based test equipment software supporting engineering, production, and sustainment environments.

Key Requirements:

  • Active (or obtainable) Secret Clearance & U.S. Citizenship
  • 8+ years of software development experience (5+ with advanced STEM degree)
  • Strong C# and C++ development using Microsoft Visual Studio
  • Experience with Windows applications, hardware/software integration, test equipment, and troubleshooting
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related STEM field
  • Ability to work 100% onsite in Tucson, AZ

Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, and maintain object-oriented software applications
  • Support test equipment, instrumentation, and production systems
  • Collaborate with software, electrical, systems, test, and manufacturing teams
  • Participate in development, integration, verification, production support, and sustainment
  • Lead technical efforts and mentor junior engineers as needed