Principal Engineer Principal Engineer Salary in Boulder, CO

Principal Engineer Salary in Boulder, CO

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
Position
City
Salary

How much does a Principal Engineer make in Boulder, CO?

The average salary for a Principal Engineer is $166,091 per year in Boulder, CO.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $166,091 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $13,841 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $3,194 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO, showing an average salary of $80 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Principal Engineers in Boulder, Colorado, earn a competitive salary. On average, they make about $166,091 per year. This figure gives a good picture of the earning potential for someone in this role in Boulder. With a range of salaries available, many engineers find attractive offers.

A breakdown of salary distribution shows a range of earnings. Most Principal Engineers earn between $155,409 and $169,682 annually. This data means there are good opportunities for those with the right skills and experience. The top earners in this role can make up to $212,500 a year. This highlights the potential for growth and high earnings in the field.

Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO
View all Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO

What are the highest paying cities for a Principal Engineer near Boulder, CO?

Principal Engineers near Boulder, CO can expect competitive salaries in nearby cities. Littleton offers an average salary of $176,042, making it one of the best areas for these roles. Denver follows closely, with an average salary of $165,299, providing another excellent opportunity for professionals in this field. These cities provide strong job markets for Principal Engineers, with attractive compensation packages. Broomfield offers an average salary of $173,646, while Englewood provides $171,079. Both cities present valuable career opportunities with good earning potentials.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Principal Engineer jobs near Boulder, CO, highlighting Littleton, CO with the highest at $176,042 and Colorado Springs, CO with the lowest at $132,979.

  1. Littleton, CO
    Average Salary: $176,042
    Littleton offers an exciting environment for engineers. Major tech companies like DaVita and Avalara thrive here. This city combines tech innovation with a high quality of life, making it a great place for professional growth.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Littleton, CO


  2. Broomfield, CO
    Average Salary: $173,646
    Broomfield is home to several tech giants, including Ball and Cisco. Engineers here enjoy a collaborative work environment. The city also provides a great balance between professional opportunities and a peaceful lifestyle.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Broomfield, CO


  3. Englewood, CO
    Average Salary: $171,079
    In Englewood, you will find a thriving tech hub. Companies such as Boeing and Amazon offer numerous opportunities. The city’s vibrant community and excellent amenities make it a perfect place to work and live.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Englewood, CO


  4. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $165,299
    Denver is a dynamic city for engineers, with firms like IBM and MongoDB leading the tech scene. The city’s diverse culture and excellent job market make it an ideal location for career advancement.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Denver, CO


  5. Lafayette, CO
    Average Salary: $164,000
    Lafayette offers a blend of suburban charm and tech innovation. Companies like CH2M and Ball Corporation are present. This city provides a supportive community and a wealth of career opportunities.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Lafayette, CO


  6. Pueblo, CO
    Average Salary: $152,000
    Pueblo boasts a growing tech sector with companies such as Kiewit and Komatsu. Engineers here benefit from a lower cost of living and a strong focus on career development. The city also offers a peaceful lifestyle.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Pueblo, CO


  7. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $132,979
    Colorado Springs is a hub for tech and innovation. Key companies like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin offer diverse career paths. The city’s beautiful surroundings and strong job market make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Colorado Springs, CO

What are the best paying companies for a Principal Engineer in Boulder, CO?

Google leads the pack with a top average salary of $212,500 for Principal Engineers in Boulder, CO. BAE Systems and BAE Systems USA follow closely, offering averages of $171,484 and $165,855, respectively. Northrop Grumman and Microchip Technology also provide competitive salaries for Principal Engineers, around $156,821 and $128,167 respectively. These companies present excellent opportunities for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Principal Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO, highlighting Google with the highest at $212,500 and Microchip Technology with the lowest at $128,167.

  1. Google
    Average Salary: $212,500
    Google offers Principal Engineer positions in Boulder, CO, with a strong focus on software engineering. Their teams work on innovative projects that impact millions of users. Google's Boulder office contributes to their broader mission of organizing the world's information.


  2. BAE Systems
    Average Salary: $171,484
    BAE Systems provides exciting opportunities for Principal Engineers in Boulder, CO. They focus on advanced technology solutions, including cybersecurity and defense systems. This role allows engineers to make significant contributions to national security.


  3. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $165,855
    BAE Systems USA offers Principal Engineer roles in Boulder, CO, with a focus on aerospace and defense. Employees here work on critical projects that support military and government needs. The role involves leading technical teams and driving innovation.


  4. Northrop Grumman
    Average Salary: $156,821
    Northrop Grumman offers Principal Engineer positions in Boulder, CO, specializing in aerospace and defense technologies. Engineers here develop advanced systems for military applications. This role provides the chance to work on impactful projects that enhance national security.


  5. Microchip Technology
    Average Salary: $128,167
    Microchip Technology provides Principal Engineer roles in Boulder, CO, focusing on semiconductor solutions. Engineers here contribute to developing embedded solutions used in various industries. This role offers a chance to innovate in a technology-driven environment.

Currently 402 Principal Engineer job openings, nationwide.

View Principal Engineer Jobs in Boulder, CO

How's the job market for a Principal Engineer in the US?

Learn what a Principal Engineer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Principal Engineer today.
Position
Overview
Principal Engineer
402 Job Openings

Win at hiring.

Visit the help center for any questions.
Contact Support
ReadySetHire icon
©2025 • ReadySetHire