Microsoft

Senior Software Engineer

Microsoft$119K — $234K *
Enterprise Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field OR equivalent experience with 4+ years of coding experience in relevant languages (C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Python).
  • Master's Degree in a relevant field OR 6+ years of coding experience preferred.
  • Experience in large-scale system architecture and development, including web applications and microservices.
  • Ability to design complex distributed systems workflows by gathering requirements and managing dependencies.
  • Experience with Agentic systems such as ChatGPT or Claude is advantageous.
  • Strong programming skills with a focus on software engineering best practices.

Responsibilities

  • Own the design and development of reliable and scalable distributed software systems.
  • Collaborate closely with engineers, product managers, and cross-functional partners to deliver key features.
  • Write high-quality, maintainable code and participate in code reviews to uphold best practices.
  • Identify and resolve production issues, and enhance system performance and reliability.
  • Gather stakeholder requirements and translate them into technical specifications for effective solutions.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and proactive problem-solving within the team.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health and wellness plans.
  • Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and innovative projects.
  • Flexible working arrangements based on corporate policies.
  • Supportive and inclusive work environment that reflects company values.
Full Job Description
Overview

We are looking for a Senior Software Engineer who is excited to tackle complex challenges and drive strategic, cross-organizational investments spanning Edge, MSN, Windows, and Copilot. In this role, you will build and scale systems that power web experiences for over 700 million users worldwide. Join us to innovate and develop scalable platforms and content experiences that shape the daily habits of millions of people.

Starting January 26, 2026, Microsoft AI (MAI) employees who live within a 50- mile commute of a designated Microsoft office in the U.S. or 25-mile commute of a non-U.S., country-specific location are expected to work from the office at least four days per week. This expectation is subject to local law and may vary by jurisdiction.

Responsibilities
  • You will own the design and development of distributed software systems that are reliable, scalable, and performant.
  • You will work closely with other engineers, product managers, and cross-functional partners to deliver impactful features and improvements.
  • You will write high-quality, maintainable, and testable code, and participate in code reviews to ensure best practices are followed. You will also help identify and resolve production issues, and continuously improve the performance and reliability of our systems.
  • You will collaborate with stakeholders to understand requirements, translate them into technical specifications, and deliver solutions that meet business goals. You will be expected to take initiative, think proactively, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.
  • You will collaborates with diverse teams to achieve our goals.
  • You are passionate about embodying our culture and values.


Qualifications

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related technical field AND 4+ years technical engineering experience with coding in languages including, but not limited to, C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, or Python
    • OR equivalent experience.

Other 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.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master'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++, C#, Java, JavaScript, or Python
    • OR Bachelor'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++, C#, Java, JavaScript, or Python
    • OR equivalent experience.
  • Experience in large scale system architecture, design, development, testing, and release, including but not limited to web applications, microservices in layers, database design, API design, performance tuning, telemetry design and analysis.
  • Can design and create complex distributed systems workflows by gathering requirements from partner teams, identifying of dependencies, and driving alignment and design with partner and product teams, and finally leading the implementation of the solution.
  • Experience in Agentic systems such as ChatGPT, Claude etc.,
  • Demonstrated programming skills and knowledge of architectural patterns for large, high-scale applications.
  • Data-driven mindset. Ability to analyze data and persuade your team using effective analysis.
  • Experience applying software engineering best practices, with a foundation in data structures, algorithms, coding, testing, debugging, and analytical problem-solving.


#MicrosoftAI

Software Engineering IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $119,800 - $234,700 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 $160,200 - $261,000 per year.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay

This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

About Microsoft

Microsoft is an American multinational corporation that develops, manufactures, licenses, supports, and sells a range of software products and services. Microsoft’s devices and consumer (D&C) licensing segment licenses the Windows operating system and related software, Microsoft Office for consumers, and the Windows Phone operating system. The company’s computing and gaming hardware segment provides Xbox gaming and entertainment consoles and accessories, second-party and third-party video games, and Xbox Live subscriptions; surface devices and accessories; and Microsoft PC accessories. Its phone hardware segment offers Lumia smartphones and other non-Lumia phones. Its D&C segment provides Windows Store, Xbox Live transactions, and Windows phone store; search advertising; display advertising; Office 365 Home and Office 365 Personal; first-party video games; and other consumer products and services as well as operating retail stores. Microsoft’s commercial licensing segments license server products, including Windows Server, Microsoft SQL Server, Visual Studio, System Center, and related Client Access Licenses (CALs); Windows Embedded; Windows operating system; Microsoft Office for business, including Office, Exchange, SharePoint, Lync, and related CALs; Microsoft Dynamics business solutions; and Skype. Its commercial segment offers enterprise services, including premier support services and Microsoft consulting services; commercial cloud comprising Office 365 Commercial, other Microsoft Office online offerings, Dynamics CRM Online, and Microsoft Azure; and other commercial products and online services. The company markets and distributes its products through original equipment manufacturers, distributors, and resellers, as well as online.

Microsoft Careers

Join Microsoft today and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and diversity in its workforce. As a global leader in technology and digital transformation, Microsoft offers unparalleled job opportunities that propel your career to new heights.

Explore Career Opportunities at Microsoft

Whether you're a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a recent graduate eager to start your career, Microsoft has a position that suits your skills and ambitions. We are committed to fostering a culture of growth and learning, where every team member is supported in expanding their horizons.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with a Microsoft internship. Our internships provide invaluable workplace experience and networking opportunities in a supportive and dynamic environment. You'll work on real projects, learn from industry leaders, and gain the skills necessary for a successful career in technology.

Employment Benefits

Choosing a career at Microsoft means more than just a job. Our employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to empower them both professionally and personally. These include comprehensive health benefits, flexible working conditions, and opportunities for career advancement through professional development and diversity training.

Inclusive Culture and Diversity

At Microsoft, we believe that innovation comes from diversity of thought and inclusion. We are committed to a workplace where everyone feels valued and inspired. Our leadership is dedicated to fostering an environment where diverse perspectives lead to breakthrough innovations and a competitive edge.

Grow with Us

Career growth at Microsoft is about more than climbing the corporate ladder; it's about continuous learning, expanding your skills, and improving your capabilities. With access to various leadership and training programs, you can evolve as a professional and make a significant impact within the company and on the global stage.

Hiring Process

Our hiring process is designed to identify true potential. Starting with a review of your resume, followed by interviews that assess your problem-solving abilities and cultural fit, we ensure that all candidates have a fair chance to demonstrate their strengths and potential to contribute to our team.

Networking and Professional Development

Microsoft is a place where you can build a professional network that spans the globe. Our employees benefit from connections with top-tier professionals and industry leaders, which opens doors to innovative projects and collaborative opportunities that are second to none.

Join Our Team

If you're ready to take on exciting challenges and make a difference in the world of technology, explore the job opportunities at Microsoft. Search for open positions that match your skills and interests, and prepare to embark on a rewarding career path filled with innovation and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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At Microsoft, your future is limitless. Join us in our mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. Your journey with Microsoft starts here.
Learn more about Microsoft
Size
181,000 employees
Market Cap
$1,762.4 billion
Industry
Net Income
$51.3 billion
Founded
1975
5 Year Trend
+15.5%
Revenue
$153.2 billion
NASDAQ

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