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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 Aug 8, 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 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.

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.
Infographic showing various Trainee Principal Java Software Engineer job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of August 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

Collins Aerospace

Cedar Rapids, IA

$135K - $204K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-05

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-105 ~ 400 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 105

Position Role Type:

Unspecified

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Security Clearance Type:

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Rockwell Collins Inc. d/b/a Collins Aerospace has an opening for a Principal Engineer, Software Engineering in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Joining Collins Aerospace isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.

What YOU will do

  • Work in the Business and Regional Avionics Flight Management Applications Department working on the AGILE environment focusing on the design and development of software-only products.
  • Provide leadership to feature development tasks, including design implementation plans, software requirements, coding, and software verification and integration testing.
  • Implement major components, present design reviews, and coordinate with other organizations.
  • Develop, coordinate and conduct complex tests; and debug control and diagnostic systems that contain logical and mathematical solutions.
  • Conduct multidisciplinary research and collaborate with other project team members in the planning, design, development and utilization of electronic data processing systems for product and commercial software to ensure smooth operations on software engineering activities.
  • Design and implement build procedures that are used to support hardware and software product development and function.
  • Recommend changes in the selection and application of software production components to improve and develop software engineering activities.
  • Determine end-user needs by analyzing system capabilities to resolve problems on program intent, output requirements and input data acquisition.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Must possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Avionics/ Aerospace Engineering or related field and 8 years of progressive experience as a Software Engineer or related role. In the alternative, must possess at least a master’s degree or its equivalent in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Avionics/ Aerospace Engineering or related field and 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer or related role would be acceptable.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience developing software using any of the high level programming languages in Safety Critical Embedded software development, for e.g. C, C++, Python.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of DO-178B development experience.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience in Avionics industry.
  • Must possess at least 2 years of experience leading a project.
  • Non-US Person - Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. The company will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. The company will not seek an export authorization for this role. 

Learn More & Apply Now!

Avionics: Our Avionics team advances flight deck solutions, airborne communications, vision systems, sensors and fire protection for commercial and military customers around the world. That means we’re helping people reach their destination safely and keeping pilots, passengers, flight crews, airlines, airports and military personnel connected and informed. And we’re providing industry-leading fire protection and safety systems that our customers can count on when it matters most. Are you ready to learn from the most knowledgeable experts in the industry, develop the technologies of tomorrow and reach new heights in your career? Join our Avionics team today.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work onsite. This

includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the

development of our products.  

The salary range is The salary range is The salary range is $135,803.00 to $204,500.00 USD per year. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

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 in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018