United States
Job
Principal Software Engineer

Average Experienced Principal Software Engineer with C Programming Language Skills Salary in San Jose, California

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Skills
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$166,185
/ year

Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$139k
MEDIAN
$166k
90%
$207k

The average salary for a Principal Software Engineer is $166,185 in 2025

Base Salary
$139k - $207k
Bonus
$14k - $35k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $9k
Total Pay
$149k - $233k
Based on 18 salary profiles (last updated Feb 13 2021)
Is Average Experienced Principal Software Engineer with C Programming Language Skills Salary in San Jose, California your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What Do Principal Software Engineers Do?

Find your market worth – how it works:

Common Health Benefits for a Principal Software Engineer

Medical
93%
Dental
93%
Vision
87%
None
7%

Gender Breakdown for Principal Software Engineers

Male
100.0%
This data is based on 7 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
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FAQs About Principal Software Engineers

What is the highest pay for Principal Software Engineers in San Jose?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in San Jose is $207k / year

What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Engineers in San Jose?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in San Jose is $139k / year

How can Principal Software Engineers increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as a Principal Software 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 Software Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Software Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.

WHAT AM I WORTH?
What your skills are worth in the job market is constantly changing.
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