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Principal Software Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

$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

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 hands-on execution across complex, cloud-native software initiatives. This role ...

Mondo

Principal Software Engineer - SRE

Boston, MA · Remote

$130K - $185K/yr

Principal Software Engineer - SRE, location is Remote (ET time zone; CT considered if working ET ... Prevent future outages through engineering improvements * Review architecture and influence design ...

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How much do principal software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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 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.

How does a principal software engineer 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal software engineer?

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.

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 do principal software engineers do?

Principal software engineers lead technical teams, design complex systems, and set technical standards within an organization. They often mentor junior engineers, review code, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure project success, requiring strong problem-solving skills and expertise in programming languages and development tools.
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Principal Software Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Software Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,936 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Principal, Software Engineering

Northern Trust Corp

Chicago, IL • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Northern Trust rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

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 combines deep engineering expertise with mentorship, architecture influence, and strong collaboration across global teams. The ideal candidate is passionate about **engineering excellence**, **AI‐assisted development**, and **building high‐quality, scalable products** using modern development practices.* **Mentor and groom engineers** to elevate technical skills, design thinking, and ownership mindset.* Provide guidance through code reviews, design discussions, and technical deep dives.* Foster a culture of **high engineering standards**, accountability, and continuous improvement.* Act as a trusted technical advisor to product, QA, and platform teams.* 10+ years of professional software engineering experience, with a strong **hands‐on** track record.* Deep expertise in **Java** and modern application frameworks.* Strong experience with **Azure cloud services** and cloud‐native application development.* Solid understanding and practical application of: + Test‐Driven Development (TDD) + Spec‐driven / contract‐first development + CI/CD and DevOps practices* Working knowledge of **cloud databases**, data modeling, and performance tuning.* Proven ability to lead by influence rather than authority.* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.* Strong problem‐solving, design, and decision‐making abilities.* Comfortable operating in fast‐paced, evolving environments.* **Microsoft Azure Architect Certification** (strongly preferred).* Experience integrating or enabling **AI‐assisted engineering tools** within development workflows.* Exposure to large‐scale modernization, cloud migration, or distributed systems.* Experience working in regulated or enterprise‐grade environments. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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