▼37%
$143,240
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$107k
MEDIAN
$143k
90%
$181k
The average salary for a Principal Systems Engineer is $143,240 in 2025
Base Salary
$107k - $181k
Bonus
$2k - $21k
Profit Sharing
$2k - $15k
Total Pay
$109k - $190k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Systems Engineers?
What Do Principal Systems Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Principal Systems Engineers Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 106 responses, the job of Principal Systems Engineer has received a job satisfaction rating of 4.05 out of 5. On average, Principal Systems Engineers are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Systems Engineer
Medical
92%
Dental
88%
Vision
82%
None
8%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Systems Engineers
Male
84.5%
Female
14.9%
Prefer to self-define
0.3%
This data is based on 342 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Systems Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Systems Engineers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Systems Engineer is $181k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Systems Engineers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Systems Engineer is $107k / year
How can Principal Systems Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Systems 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 Systems Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Systems Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.