Principal Network Hardware Engineer

Overview

Microsoft's Cloud Operations & Innovation (CO+I) is the engine that powers Microsoft's cloud services. As a Principal Network Hardware Engineer in the CTO Office of CO+I, you will help shape the future of data center networking by developing and evolving next-generation network architectures, hardware platforms, and physical layer designs. You will be responsible for driving the technical direction, design, and integration of networking solutions that span switches, interconnects, optics, and physical infrastructure, ensuring they are ready for large-scale, production deployment. You will work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to design, prototype, validate, and deliver highly reliable, scalable, and efficient networking solutions that support the performance demands of Microsoft's global cloud platform.

In alignment with Microsoft's values, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment where diverse perspectives are valued. We believe that innovation is strongest when everyone can contribute, and we strive to create a culture where employees are empowered to do their best work and make a meaningful impact every day.

Responsibilities

• Lead the definition and evolution of next-generation data center networking architectures, with a focus on scalability, resiliency, and support for emerging compute and AI workloads.
• Own and drive network requirements and design guidance across multiple data center form factors, ensuring alignment between networking, power, cooling, and physical infrastructure constraints.
• Partner cross-functionally with network engineers, data center architects, facilities, operations, and supply chain teams to translate architectural concepts into deployable, production-ready solutions.
• Evaluate and mature innovative networking technologies and architectures, including disaggregated systems, pre-integrated designs, high-bandwidth interconnects, and new optical or physical layer approaches.
• Lead early-stage concept development, pilots, and proof-of-concepts, including defining success criteria, managing technical risk, and capturing learnings to inform production decisions.
• Provide technical leadership and thought partnership on long-term networking strategy, influencing roadmaps and standards that enable future scale and flexibility.
• Identify gaps in current architectures or processes and drive system-level improvements that reduce cost, improve deployability, or increase operational efficiency.
• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to a broad audience, including engineering peers, partner teams, and senior leadership, through written documents, reviews, and presentations.
• Mentor engineers and act as a technical bar-raiser, contributing to a culture of strong engineering rigor, clear ownership, and continuous learning.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 7+ years technical engineering experience OR Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 8+ years technical engineering experience OR equivalent experience.

Background Check Requirements:

Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings:

• Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud background check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.

While not required, we look for the following Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 5+ years of technical engineering experience OR Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 8+ years technical engineering experience OR Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 12+ years technical engineering experience OR equivalent experience.
• 6+ years of experience as a Technical Program Manager.
• 6+ years of professional experience in network engineering and architecture, including designing, deploying, and operating complex enterprise or cloud networks at scale.

Hardware Engineering IC5 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $139,900 - $274,800 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $188,000 - $304,200 per year.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:
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This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.