▲3%
AU$155,296
Avg. Base Salary (AUD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (AUD)
10%
A$97k
MEDIAN
A$155k
90%
A$195k
The average salary for a Principal Engineer is AU$155,296 in 2025
Base Salary
AU$97k - AU$195k
Bonus
AU$0 - AU$12k
Total Pay
AU$97k - AU$195k
Is Average Principal Engineer Salary in Australia your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Engineers?
▲11%
What Do Principal Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Engineer
Medical
13%
None
87%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Engineers
Male
100.0%
This data is based on 9 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Engineers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Engineer is A$195k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Engineers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Engineer is A$97k / year
How can Principal Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Engineer is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Principal Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.