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Principal software engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

6 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Principal software engineer example skills

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical principal software engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for principal software engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 16.4% of principal software engineer resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a principal software engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 principal software engineer skills for your resume and career

1. Java

Java is a widely-known programming language that was invented in 1995 and is owned by Oracle. It is a server-side language that was created to let app developers "write once, run anywhere". It is easy and simple to learn and use and is powerful, fast, and secure. This object-oriented programming language lets the code be reused that automatically lowers the development cost. Java is specially used for android apps, web and application servers, games, database connections, etc. This programming language is closely related to C++ making it easier for the users to switch between the two.

Here's how principal software engineers use java:

Managed Java central monitor, authoring Java system implementing Java-based central monitoring system using Linux.
Designed, implemented, and documented high-speed Java message collection and delivery agent.

2. Python

Python is a widely-known programming language. It is an object-oriented and all-purpose, coding language that can be used for software development as well as web development.

Here's how principal software engineers use python:

Designed and implemented embedded Linux server-side python application for processing of command/control/response of RF serial detection and compass serial devices.
Developed mathematical models and simulations for evaluating system throughput and design using MATLAB and Python.

3. Software Development

Software development is the mechanism by which programmers create computer programs. The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a framework for developing applications that follow technological needs and consumer requirements. It consists of many stages. The SDLC establishes an international standard that software developers can use to enhance and create their programs. It provides a well-defined framework for software developers to pursue in the production, maintenance, and design of premium quality software. The aim of the software development process is to create high-quality software on time and within budget.

Here's how principal software engineers use software development:

Defined requirements, software architectures, organized project teams, software development plans, contributed to business development, business proposals.
Contributed to software development projects by collaborating with teams to define system/subsystem requirements, software architecture, and resolve certification issues.

4. Object Oriented Programming

Here's how principal software engineers use object oriented programming:

Developed prototype of application, and started development of the application using Visual Basic, object oriented programming.
Modernized site architecture by introducing Object Oriented programming practices in Flash design.

5. Linux

Linux is a Unix-like operating system. Just like Windows, Mac OS, and IOS, Linux is an operating system used by millions across the globe. Android itself is powered by the Linux operating system. Linux manages all the hardware resources that are associated with your computer. The software is famous because of the protection it grants from viruses, malware, and crashes. The Linux operating system is entirely free and is an open-source software meaning it can be altered by those equipped with the knowledge to code.

Here's how principal software engineers use linux:

Helped develop state-of-art In Flight Entertainment software using MontaVista embedded Linux OS.
Developed Linux kernel performance measurement tools for Rockwell's next generation system.

6. AWS

Here's how principal software engineers use aws:

Ensured Amazon Web Services (AWS) infrastructure was configured for robust resiliency to maintain high levels of services and availability.
Design and implement cloud based applications on AWS and Google Cloud Compute Engine for private clients.

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7. GIT

Here's how principal software engineers use git:

Provided Git and general development environment training and consulting to Hyper-V development team.
Integrated multimedia implementations to main development line via GIT control.

8. JavaScript

Here's how principal software engineers use javascript:

Developed web analytic tracking mechanism using JavaScript injection techniques with ASP.NET to extract specific data elements from web business applications.
Designed and implemented notification feature in JavaScript for ability to be notified when new information was pushed to the MetaWeb server.

9. Scrum

Scrum is a lean structure for communicating, designing, and promoting complex products, with a focus on programming development. It has been applied to a variety of areas, including manufacturing, testing, new technology, and marketing techniques. Scrum is a simple framework that helps people, organizations, and teams generate value by providing many solutions to complicated problems.

Here's how principal software engineers use scrum:

Led a successful product development Scrum team, providing extensive mentoring and design review expertise across multiple international sites.
Collaborated on projects developed via Agile Programming methods including a Scrum variant.

10. C

Here's how principal software engineers use c:

Performed ASIC design verification by developing design verification tests in C language and utilizing VCS/VCPU/JTAG interfaces.
Modified poor designed C data structure for platform compatibility.

11. C++

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that is used to create high-performing applications. It was invented as an extension to the C language. C++ lets the programmer have a high level of domination over memory and system resources. C++ is an object-oriented language that helps you implement real-time issues based on different data functions

Here's how principal software engineers use c++:

Involved in IE programming in c++, VC++ 6.0 & Java script in windows environment.
Provided inputs in development of test plans and procedures in Python/C++ for cabin pressure systems.

12. Debugging

Here's how principal software engineers use debugging:

Developed standardized diagnostic and debugging platform that became widely used within organization, shortening development time and enhancing test capabilities.
Developed algorithms and implemented advance debugging and troubleshooting technology for significant product enhancements that opened new markets.

13. Azure

Here's how principal software engineers use azure:

Developed tests which simulate several real world distributed environment faults and scenarios targeted against Azure and on premise server environments.
Migrated data from on-premises data servers onto Microsoft Azure cloud platform utilizing Azure data factory.

14. Database

A database is a collection of data and information which makes it easy to view, access, and manage. Databases save a lot of time and can store huge amounts of data. Databases make sorting data easier and stores it in certain fields which narrows the searching criteria. A database usually contains tables, graphs, and columns to display data.

Here's how principal software engineers use database:

Designed logical and physical models for database; produced size estimates; determined physical configuration; implemented database in Oracle 7.
Monitor industry trends and directions in database technology and tools; develop and present substantive technical recommendations to senior management.

15. API

Here's how principal software engineers use api:

Designed and wrote a data replication server, and RPC server with the Sybase Open Server api.
Developed web-service using DocuSign API to electronically send bonus letters to employees and give employees ability to acknowledge electronically.

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What skills help Principal Software Engineers find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on principal software engineer resumes?

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.

Professor, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Director, Montana Engineering Education Research Center (MEERC), Montana State University

All companies are looking for some experience beyond the classrooms. This can be through internships or doing research at their universities. But students still need to show an acceptable GPA to show employers that they understand the fundamentals of their discipline.

What soft skills should all principal software engineers possess?

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Associate Professor of CIS, J. Bradley Oxley Professor of Computer Information Systems, University of Tulsa

All the soft skills are important, but a few are absolutely critical in today's hybrid workforce. With the uncertainty of COVID delaying the return to the office, many companies are embracing hybrid work and/or 100% remote for some or all of their employees. Today's employees must be able to effectively communicate over a range of different modalities, both synchronously and asynchronously, while still being able to actively build and maintain relationships as they participate in one or more teams of coworkers, customers, and other stakeholders. Today's IT workers need to be honest with themselves on the work environments they can and cannot succeed within.

What hard/technical skills are most important for principal software engineers?

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Associate Professor of CIS, J. Bradley Oxley Professor of Computer Information Systems, University of Tulsa

Students graduating with Information Systems and related degrees usually have little problem finding employment upon graduation. However, the pandemic upended that paradigm for some. For those who recently graduated and are still looking for employment, keep the faith and develop your technical skills. Developers should show prospective employers that they are familiar with agile programming methodologies and modern DevOps stacks and processes. Data analysts should be focused on presenting their ability to work with structured and unstructured data, effectively query data using SQL & NoSQL, and, most importantly, provide actionable insight by making data accessible and relatable to decision-makers at all levels of an organization. Those interested in cloud architecture and cyber security careers have to keep current on their skills and certifications. Cloud engineers need to stay aware of the constant changes happening at the major providers (AWS, Azure, GCP) and, as with all other IT fields, provide tangible evidence of your skills via real projects that you have worked on. Prospective cyber security analysts should first focus on identifying their first specialization because there are too many security roles to learn them all at once, especially as beginners. Two popular entry-level cyber security jobs include information security consultant and Security Operations Center (SOC). Both of these roles require a sound foundation in networking fundamentals, vulnerability identification and mitigation, and an understanding of organizationally relevant security and privacy frameworks and regulations.

What principal software engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Dr. Tao Ju

Vice Dean for Research & Professor, Washington University in St. Louis

Graduates should research their targeted industries, companies and positions to identify which skills are in highest demand. Every job description has required qualifications and a desired qualifications section. The focus should be on trying to develop those desired qualifications. This could include learning a new programming language or working towards a certification (EIT, LEED, Six Sigma, etc.). Having said that, the specific skills themselves are less important than demonstrating the drive, passion and curiosity to continue developing. Do something. Take a course, volunteer, take on a short-term project, or teach yourself new software. The more graduates have developed their technical and transferable skills (leadership, communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem solving, etc.), the more competitive they will be as they enter the job market, and the quicker they will make a difference in an organization.

What type of skills will young principal software engineers need?

Dr. Ted Junseok Song

Associate Professor of Engineering, John Brown University

As it always has been, the ability to communicate with others would be a critical skill for college graduates. Additionally, it will be more necessary for professionals to work cross-culturally, as the U.S. is becoming more diverse.

What technical skills for a principal software engineer stand out to employers?

Bob Sweeney Ph.D.

Associate Professor, University of South Alabama

Strong database skills including big data and SQL are always valued by local employers hiring our IS majors. While not technical, written and verbal communications skills are always important.

Do you want to know more?

List of principal software engineer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a principal software engineer resume and required skills for a principal software engineer to have include:

Java
Python
Software Development
Object Oriented Programming
Linux
AWS
GIT
JavaScript
Scrum
C
C++
Debugging
Azure
Database
API
Spring Boot

Jenkins
Tcp Ip
Jira
Web Services
Microservices
Software Design
Http
UI
Strong Problem-Solving
Cloud Computing
Development Environment
Hadoop
Code Reviews
Html Css
Net Core
CSS

Unix
QA
C Net
Visualization
HTML
Ruby
Configuration Management
Emerging Technologies
Perl
Feature Development
XML
JSON
Bitbucket
Web Application
Eclipse

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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