▼12%
$136,101
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$102k
MEDIAN
$136k
90%
$174k
The average salary for a Principal Engineer is $136,101 in 2025
Base Salary
$102k - $174k
Bonus
$5k - $25k
Profit Sharing
$2k - $20k
Total Pay
$107k - $190k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Engineers?
What Do Principal Engineers Do?
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Common Health Benefits for a Principal Engineer
Medical
95%
Dental
89%
Vision
83%
None
5%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Engineers
Male
86.7%
Female
13.3%
This data is based on 60 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 $174k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Engineers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Engineer is $102k / 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.