Principal Software Engineer

Microsoft empowers every person and organization on the planet to achieve more through innovative technology solutions.
United States
$137,600 - $267,000
Backend
Principal Software Engineer
Remote
5,000+ Employees
10+ years of experience
AI · Enterprise SaaS · Cloud

Description For Principal Software Engineer

The Software-Defined Datacenter (SDD) team at Microsoft is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to drive innovation in cloud infrastructure efficiency. This role combines hands-on technical leadership with architectural vision, focusing on optimizing Azure's datacenter operations through software and machine learning solutions. The team has already saved Microsoft billions through initiatives in power efficiency, ML systems, and intelligent resource management.

As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll be at the forefront of enabling AI-training supercomputers and software-optimized cooling at hyperscale. You'll write production code, architect solutions, and collaborate across hardware, firmware, and platform teams. The position requires expertise in cloud infrastructure, ML deployment, and distributed systems, with opportunities to mentor junior engineers and shape Microsoft's datacenter future.

The role offers competitive compensation ($137,600 - $267,000 base salary, higher in SF/NYC), comprehensive benefits, and the chance to work on critical infrastructure powering Microsoft Azure. You'll join a team that publishes in prestigious venues like ISCA and Nature, while directly impacting Microsoft's sustainability goals and operational efficiency.

This is an ideal opportunity for a senior engineer who combines technical excellence with collaborative leadership, offering up to 100% remote work with 0-25% travel. You'll be part of Azure Core, working on fundamental improvements to Microsoft's cloud infrastructure while mentoring the next generation of engineers in an inclusive environment.

Last updated 3 minutes ago

Responsibilities For Principal Software Engineer

  • Design & Build – Own end-to-end architecture and implementation of cloud-scale services
  • Code With Impact – Dive into C#, Rust, or Python to build high-reliability control-plane and data-plane components
  • Leverage AI/ML – Driver for applying ML in our scenarios and infusing AI in our workflows
  • Innovate Relentlessly – Incubate new ideas, validate them with data, and drive adoption across Azure
  • Push fundamentals – Champion a culture of Livesite first, focus on Quality and security
  • Collaborate Broadly – Act as the glue between research, engineering, hardware, and datacenter teams
  • Mentor & Uplift – Coach junior and mid-level engineers, champion inclusive engineering practices

Requirements For Principal Software Engineer

Python
Rust
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related technical field AND 6+ years technical engineering experience
  • 4+ years of cloud infrastructure development experience
  • 2+ years of experience deploying/leveraging ML models at scale
  • Experience in coding languages including C#, Rust, or Python
  • Pass Microsoft Cloud Background Check

Benefits For Principal Software Engineer

Medical Insurance
Parental Leave
Education Budget
401k
  • 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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