It really depends on the company (or even part of the company if its bigger). As a Principal I do code less than I used to as Staff or Senior. But I still do

It really depends on the company (or even part of the company if its bigger). As a Principal I do code less than I used to as Staff or Senior. But I still do a fair amount of coding (along with design, arch, mentoring/guiding). I've made it clear that I want to remain a hands on engineer, and my company has let me remain so. Not everyone is so lucky to have a choice, but if you do -- In the end, its finding a place where you can get the balance that makes you happy.