Principal Software Engineer

Microsoft is a global technology leader providing cloud computing, software, and hardware solutions across Azure, Office 365, Windows, and Xbox platforms.
Hillsboro, OR, USA
$137,600 - $267,000
Distributed Systems
Principal Software Engineer
Remote
5,000+ Employees
6+ years of experience
Enterprise SaaS · Cloud

Description For Principal Software Engineer

Microsoft's Leading-Edge Architecture Pathfinding (LEAP) team within Azure Hardware Systems & Infrastructure (AHSI) is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to drive innovation in cloud hardware systems. This role focuses on hardware/software co-design, particularly in memory management, virtualization, and system interconnects.

The position involves leading system software prototyping, developing proof-of-concepts for memory tiering and pooling solutions, and conducting detailed performance analysis. You'll work at the intersection of hardware and software, collaborating with domain experts to optimize Azure's infrastructure.

Key responsibilities include developing end-to-end performance analysis methodologies, collaborating with workload experts and architects, and engaging with Azure's supplier ecosystem. The role requires deep expertise in system software, OS internals, and virtualization technologies.

The ideal candidate will have 6+ years of technical engineering experience, strong knowledge of Windows or Linux OS internals, and proven experience in hardware/software co-design. You'll need excellent collaboration skills and the ability to influence technical direction across teams.

This position offers competitive compensation ($137,600 - $267,000 base salary, higher in SF and NYC), comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to shape the future of cloud computing at Microsoft. You'll be part of a team responsible for Microsoft's expanding cloud infrastructure, supporting services like Azure, Office 365, and Xbox Live.

Working at Microsoft provides access to industry-leading healthcare, educational resources, savings and investment options, parental leave, and numerous other benefits. The role offers up to 100% work from home flexibility with 0-25% travel requirements.

Last updated 18 hours ago

Responsibilities For Principal Software Engineer

  • Lead full system software prototyping for memory tiering and pooling solutions
  • Develop and lead end-to-end performance analysis methodologies
  • Collaborate with domain experts on workloads and architecture
  • Engage with Azure's supplier ecosystem
  • Influence and shape hardware architecture with data-driven analysis

Requirements For Principal Software Engineer

Linux
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related technical discipline AND 6+ years technical engineering experience
  • 5+ years of experience in systems software
  • 5+ years of experience leading hardware/software co-design projects
  • Knowledge of Windows or Linux Operating System internals
  • Deep expertise in CPU, memory and I/O virtualization
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills and analytical capabilities

Benefits For Principal Software Engineer

Medical Insurance
Education Budget
Parental Leave
  • Industry leading healthcare
  • Educational resources
  • Discounts on products and services
  • Savings and investments
  • Maternity and paternity leave
  • Generous time away
  • Giving programs
  • Opportunities to network and connect

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