Principal Software Engineer (Medical Device Software/C#, .NET, Windows)

We foster an inclusive culture and are looking for diverse, talented people to join our team. As a Principal Software Engineer, you will serve as a technical leader responsible for architecting, designing, and developing complex Windows-based software applications that support Alcon’s next-generation ophthalmic diagnostic and surgical medical devices. You will play a key role throughout the software development lifecycle, partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions that improve patient outcomes and help people see brilliantly.

In this highly visible role, you will provide strategic technical leadership, drive software architecture decisions, and influence engineering best practices across multiple product development programs. You will work closely with systems engineering, hardware, quality, regulatory, and product management teams to ensure that software solutions meet performance, reliability, cybersecurity, and regulatory requirements for medical devices onsite in Lake Forest, CA.

In this role, a typical day will include:

• Lead the architecture, design, and development of Windows-based software for ophthalmic medical devices.
• Drive technical strategy and architectural decisions across multiple product development initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Systems Engineering, Quality, Regulatory, Hardware, and Product Management.
• Mentor engineers and champion software development best practices, quality, and innovation.
• Guide all phases of the software development lifecycle, from requirements through verification and release.
• Evaluate and implement technologies and processes that improve product performance, reliability, and scalability.
• Serve as a technical leader, influencing engineering direction and supporting key business objectives.

• Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +13 yrs; Assoc.+9 yrs; M.S.+2 yrs; PhD+0 yrs)
• The ability to fluently read, write, understand and communicate in English
• 5 Years of Relevant Experience
• Sponsorship/Relocation: No

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

• Preferred educational background in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Experience developing Windows-based software applications using C#, .NET, WPF/XAML, MVVM, C++, and Microsoft technology stacks.
• Strong understanding of software architecture, object-oriented design principles, design patterns, and scalable software development practices.
• Experience working in FDA-regulated medical device environments or other highly regulated industries.
• Knowledge of multi-threading, interprocess communication, TCP/IP networking, hardware-software integration, source control (Git), and automated testing methodologies.
• Familiarity with healthcare interoperability technologies and standards such as HL7, FHIR, DICOM, and Protocol Buffers.
• Experience with ophthalmic technologies, medical imaging, image processing, signal processing, algorithm development, or other advanced healthcare technologies is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical challenges, drive innovation, and effectively collaborate across cross-functional engineering, quality, regulatory, and product teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Collaborate with teammates to share standard processes and findings as work evolves
• See your career like never before with focused growth and development opportunities
• Join Alcon’s mission to provide outstanding, innovative products and solutions to improve sight, improve lives, and grow your career!
• Alcon provides a robust benefits package including health, life, retirement, flexible time off and much more.

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Compensation and Benefits

Alcon’s Total Rewards programs are designed to align incentives with business objectives, support our values, and deliver longterm value. Our compensation approach includes a combination of fixed and variable pay, with shortterm and longterm incentive opportunities for eligible roles. Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events, including programs that promote health and wellbeing, provide financial security, and support retirement planning.

The salary range posted represents the anticipated hiring range for this role. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, location, and internal equity, and may fall outside the posted range.

Pay Range 128,350.00 - 166,100.00

Alcon Pay Range: 128,350.00 - 166,100.00 flex time United States, California, Lake Forest 20511 Lake Forest Drive (Show on map) Jul 30, 2026

At Alcon, we are driven by the meaningful work we do to help people see brilliantly. We innovate boldly, champion progress, and act with speed as the global leader in eye care. Here, you’ll be recognized for your commitment and contributions and see your career like never before. Together, we go above and beyond to make an impact on the lives of our patients and customers.