How much does a Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) make in the United States?
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The average Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) salary in the United States is $95,983 as of September 2026. The range for our most popular Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) positions (listed below) typically falls between $88,931 and $103,035. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)'s Annual Base Salary
Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)'s Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead Software Development Engineer | $150,778 | $72.49 | United States | September 2026 |
| Software Development Lead | $122,392 | $58.84 | United States | September 2026 |
| Software Development Engineer | $128,507 | $61.78 | United States | September 2026 |
| Lead Software Engineer | $172,062 | $82.72 | United States | September 2026 |
| Software Development Team Lead | $148,473 | $71.38 | United States | September 2026 |
| Senior Software Development Lead | $167,694 | $80.62 | United States | September 2026 |
| Lead Development Engineer | $106,924 | $51.41 | United States | September 2026 |
| Software Engineer - Project Lead | $148,890 | $71.58 | United States | September 2026 |
| Principal Software Development Engineer | $169,315 | $81.40 | United States | September 2026 |
| Embedded Software Development Engineer | $132,690 | $63.79 | United States | September 2026 |
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Codes software applications based on third party business requirements. Standardizes the quality assurance procedure for software. Oversees testing and debugging and develops fixes. Researches client complaints and makes necessary adjustments and/or recommendations to resolve complex software related issues. Requires a bachelor's degree in a related area. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Typically requires 4 to 7 years of related experience. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. View Commercial Software Engineer III SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Custom Application Developer III, Senior Commercial Software EngineerCategory : IT - Computers, Software
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Plans, designs, and supervises the construction and maintenance of building and infrastructure projects such as airports, bridges, channels, dams, railroads, or roads. Analyzes the design effectiveness and structural reliability of major projects including assessing and testing materials. Performs the necessary data collection and calculations in areas such as traffic forecasting, soil capacity, groundwater analysis, and structure design. Estimates costs including personnel and material needs, prepares proposals, and establishes completion dates. May also assist in inspecting aging infrastructure or overseeing improvement projects. May participate in an engineering or professional development program. May be working towards obtaining a Professional Engineer License (PE). Requires a bachelor's degree in engineering. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. View Civil Engineer I SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Civil Infrastructure Engineer I, Civil/Construction/Structural Engineer I, Entry Civil Engineer, Entry Level Civil Engineer
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Researches and develops structural engineering specifications for aerospace products, parts, or associated operations to improve the efficiency and reliability of aerospace systems. Analyzes results of stress tests on various craft and missile parts to determine material durability and tolerances. Oversees flight tests of prototypes and analyzes resulting data to validate flight characteristics and identify necessary improvements. Conducts calculations and utilizes simulations to evaluate aerodynamics, structural integrity, propulsion efficiency, and the effect on fuel consumption of new or existing materials. Utilizes CAE, 3-D, and digital modeling to create detailed plans and specifications to support production. Assists quality assurance and purchasing teams with the evaluation of new or existing suppliers, products and materials, or technologies. Understands and complies with all federal regulatory requirements and specifications. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Typically requires 2-4 years of related experience. View Aerospace Engineer II SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Aerospace Aviation Engineer II