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Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

Writing and debugging code in languages such as C#, Java, Python, or C++ * Participating on an ... Software Engineering, Biomedical Engineering (with computational focus), or related field

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Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer information

See Cedar Rapids, IA salary details

$81.2K

$146.5K

$197.2K

How much do trainee principal java software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee principal java software engineer in Cedar Rapids, IA is $146,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,800.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee principal Java software engineer?

A Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer is an entry-level professional learning to take on the responsibilities of a Principal Java Software Engineer. This role involves gaining advanced knowledge of Java programming, software architecture, and leadership skills. Trainees work under the guidance of senior engineers to design, develop, and oversee complex software projects. The position serves as a pathway to becoming a Principal Engineer, focusing on both technical expertise and team leadership.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a trainee principal Java software engineer during the first year in the role?

As a Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer, your initial responsibilities often include collaborating with senior engineers on large-scale Java projects, participating in code reviews, and assisting with architectural decisions. You'll be expected to quickly deepen your understanding of advanced Java frameworks, design patterns, and system integration techniques. The role provides significant learning opportunities, including mentorship from experienced leaders, exposure to best practices in software architecture, and involvement in technical decision-making processes. This experience helps you build the skills needed to transition into a fully-fledged Principal Java Engineer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee principal Java software engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer, you need a strong background in Java programming, software architecture, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with development tools like IntelliJ IDEA, build systems (Maven/Gradle), and frameworks such as Spring is typically required, along with an understanding of version control systems like Git. Leadership potential, excellent problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are critical soft skills for mentoring junior engineers and collaborating on complex projects. These skills and qualifications ensure you can design robust solutions, guide technical teams, and drive successful software delivery.

What is the difference between Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer vs Principal Java Software Engineer?

AspectTrainee Principal Java Software EngineerPrincipal Java Software Engineer
Experience LevelEntry-level to early careerSenior-level with extensive experience
CertificationsTypically none or basic Java certificationsAdvanced certifications like Oracle Certified Professional
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, mentorship programsLeadership roles, strategic project involvement
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in development, learning best practicesDesigning systems, leading projects, mentoring

The Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer is an entry-level role focused on learning and supporting development tasks, while the Principal Java Software Engineer is a senior expert responsible for architecture, leadership, and strategic technical decisions. The roles differ mainly in experience, responsibilities, and level of independence within Java development teams.

Infographic showing various Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,521 per year, or $70.4 per hour.

Principal Engineer, Software Engineering

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Prattwhitney
Engineering Professional Services • 10K+ employees

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Pratt & Whitney rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 162 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Overview

Principal Engineer, Software Engineering – Cedar Rapids, IA.

Responsibilities
  • Develop, coordinate and conduct complex tests and debug control and diagnostic systems that incorporate logical and mathematical solutions.
  • Conduct multidisciplinary research, collaborating with project team members in planning, design, development, and utilization of electronic data processing systems for product and commercial software.
  • Design and implement build procedures that support hardware and software product development.
  • Recommend changes in the selection and application of software production components to improve engineering activities.
  • Determine end‑user needs by analyzing system capabilities to resolve problems related to program intent, output requirements, and input data acquisition.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Aerospace, Systems, Electrical, Computer, Software, Industrial Engineering or related field, and at least 8 years of progressive experience as a Software Engineer or related role in the Aerospace/Defense industry.
  • Alternatively, master’s degree (or equivalent) in the same fields and at least 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer in Aerospace/Defense.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in development and certification of safety‑critical Flight Deck Avionics software.
  • Minimum 5 years of software engineering project management experience, leading scrum teams, reporting project data for cost and schedule, working with certification authorities, and leading or attending SOI audits.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience with Avionics regulatory and certification requirements and processes such as TSO, DO‑178 B/C, DO‑160.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience with DOORS, Jama, Jira, Confluence, and/or Microsoft Project.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience working closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams (Software, Systems, Hardware, Mechanical).
  • U.S. Person or authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
EEO Statement

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans in compliance with applicable laws.

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What Pratt & Whitney employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Pratt & Whitney

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pratt & Whitney has a long history of leadership and innovation in the field of aviation propulsion. Our story begins in the 1920s and has flourished throughout the decades. We have continuously transformed and reinvented our businesses to offer superior products and services to our customers. In 1925, the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was founded by Frederick B. Rentschler, pioneer of the air-cooled radial engine design which enabled unprecedented power-to-weight ratio. Its first engine, the R-1340 Wasp engine, transformed military and commercial aviation and is still in use today. In 1928, the Canadian division of the Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company was established. In 1944, Pratt & Whitney began its gas turbine and jet propulsion initiative. The company constructed a wind tunnel, laboratory and engineering center to support our allies’ efforts in World War II. In 1945, wartime production included more than 300,000 Pratt & Whitney engines, touted by service members as extremely dependable – a legacy that continues today. From there, Pratt & Whitney continued to design and innovate more powerful, agile, and reliable engines becoming a leader in the aerospace industry. Today, Pratt & Whitney has more than 85,000 engines in service and more than 16,000 customers worldwide.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Hartford, CT, US