[nilkn]

The fact that folks can't even agree on what constitutes a very senior IC is definitely part of the problem. I would consider what you describe here -- reducing complexity as opposed to increasing it -- a requirement of any senior engineer. I don't see this as the hallmark of a principal or distinguished engineer but rather one of the basic differences between a developer and a senior developer.

[cpitman]

As my employer has tried to define the principal IC roles, I've actually seen the perceived qualifications of the original roles go down. IE, what would have been consider senior qualities are now principal qualities, and seniors need supervision. I believe it extends from the same root cause: not knowing how to get value out of a more senior role.

[Normal_gaussian]

I had senior in my title at my previous organisation. Something I found hilarious given my years.

The reasoning seemed to be autonomy. Until they hired people who were senior by age but not autonomous.

Engineering titles are a mess and it causes real problems when moving to another organisation.