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Principal Software Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TCS

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

The selected Principal Software Engineer responsibilities will include the support of the GMD ... Bachelors Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline preferred ...

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$60.5K

$160.9K

$231K

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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What job categories do people searching Principal Software Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Software Engineering jobs are:
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/ Sr. Principal Software Engineer (LabVIEW/TestStand) with Security Clearance

ASD, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$143K - $192K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Principal/ Sr. Principal Software Engineer (LabVIEW/TestStand)
 
Job Description:
Seeking LabVIEW/TestStand Software Engineers to develop innovative LabVIEW-centric solutions for production test systems supporting our CNI product line. In this role, the engineer will be responsible for:
Design, development, deployment, and support of LabVIEW programs and test instrumentation throughout all project life cycle phases
Translation of system requirements, specifications and goal‐oriented objectives into system designs
Interfacing with end users and customers to refine requirements and iterate designs; generation of test plans and documentation to verify compliance to system level requirements
Production of software documentation to support software release packages
Time management and flexibility to support multiple programs
Presentation of assigned work at program technical reviews, proposals, or other technical meetings.
This position can be filled at the Principal Software Engineer or the SR. Principal Software Engineer depending on years of experience and qualifications.
Basic Qualifications for the Principal Software Engineer:
Requires a Bachelors degree in STEM with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience; Master’s degree in Engineering with 3 years of experience; or 1 Year with a PhD.
Proven experience with National Instruments LabVIEW data acquisition systems and programming.
Experience developing measurement and test routines in the LabVIEW environment.
Defines development test plans and methods to ensure a robust design is achieved and validates the design against customer, internal and regulatory / government requirements.
Has strong analytical skills and the ability organize/prioritize job assignments and tasks.
Is able to communicate clearly and effectively to cross-functional team members. Has strong writing skills and is proficient with Microsoft Office tools.
Is able to document design and analysis reports as well as test reports.
Is self-motivated and able to work without close supervision to achieve tasks on time and budget.
Must be a U.S. Citizen and have an active DoD Secret Clearance.
Basic Qualifications for a Sr. Principal Software Engineer:
A Bachelors degree in STEM with a minimum of 8 years of professional experience; Master’s degree in Engineering with 6 years of experience; or 4 Year with a PhD.
Proven experience with National Instruments LabVIEW data acquisition systems and programming.
Experience developing measurement and test routines in the LabVIEW/TestStand environment.
Defines development test plans and methods to ensure a robust design is achieved and validates the design against customer, internal and regulatory / government requirements.
Has strong analytical skills and the ability organize/prioritize job assignments and tasks.
Is able to communicate clearly and effectively to cross-functional team members. Has strong writing skills and is proficient with Microsoft Office tools.
Is able to document design and analysis reports as well as test reports.
Is self-motivated and able to work without close supervision to achieve tasks on time and budget.
Must be a U.S. Citizen and have an active DoD Secret Clearance.
Preferred Skills:
Applies research to the planning, design, development and testing of LabVIEW algorithms, test environments and systems for use in space and military applications. Is able to develop design solutions to meet difficult performance requirements.
Possesses strong interpersonal skills to work effectively within a development team to understand system level interdependencies and design constraints.
CLAD, CLD, or CLA LabVIEW Certifications.
Experience working in a cross functional environment (mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software engineering, systems engineering, test engineering, production engineering, etc.) to translate customer requirements and functional block diagrams into realized control models. Review and update control system requirements to meet system level performance objectives. Conduct trade studies and identify and present alternate design options.

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