Job description

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Microsoft is on a mission to build the data foundation that powers the AI revolution, and they are seeking a Principal Software Engineer-Azure Storage to design and build intelligent storage systems for demanding AI and ML workloads. The role involves leading technical innovation, tackling complex engineering challenges, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions. Responsibilities • Design and deliver next-generation distributed storage systems optimized for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) workloads, from training to inferencing. • Provide technical leadership across architecture, development, testing, and deployment at hyperscale. • Drive innovations in scalability, performance, security, and efficiency to meet the demands of zettabyte-scale storage. • Collaborate with cross-functional teams — from AI researchers to cloud infrastructure engineers — to ensure storage meets the needs of cutting-edge AI workloads. • Mentor and guide other engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration. • Continuously evaluate emerging technologies and trends to anticipate the future of AI-native storage. Skills • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related technical field AND 6+ years technical engineering experience with coding in languages including, but not limited to, C++, C#, Java, or Python OR equivalent experience. • 5+ years of systems experience in hands-on development of reliable and performant distributed systems. • 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. • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science OR related technical field AND 10+ years technical engineering experience with coding in languages including, but not limited to, C++, C#, Java, or Python OR Master's Degree in Computer Science or related technical field AND 8+ years technical engineering experience with coding in languages including, but not limited to, C++, C#, Java, or Python OR equivalent experience. • 1+ year(s) experience in distributed systems, large-scale storage, and solving complex systems problems, including storage system internals such as availability, remote replication, durability schemes, and high-performance input/output (I/O). • 1+ year(s) experience leading technical direction and influencing architecture across teams. • Optional but valuable experience in one or more of the following domains: Database internals, Indexing and search techniques, Caching and data placement strategies, Metadata and namespace management at scale. Company Overview • Microsoft is a software corporation that develops, manufactures, licenses, supports, and sells a range of software products and services. It was founded in 1975, and is headquartered in Redmond, Washington, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is https://www.microsoft.com. Company H1B Sponsorship • Microsoft has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 7425 in 2025, 9343 in 2024, 7677 in 2023, 11403 in 2022, 7210 in 2021, 7852 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.

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