Senior Software Engineer

Senior Software Engineer

The Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) for Microsoft is chartered with understanding, shaping, and accelerating technologies and their impact on Microsoft, industry, and society in order to empower every person and every organization to achieve more. Whether it’s providing technical insights company-wide or giving meaning to an “AI First” company, OCTO leads investments in cutting-edge innovation and works across the company with engineering, field, and strategy teams.

As a Senior Software Engineer in OCTO, you will operate at the intersection of technical exploration and strategic impact. You’ll build prototypes and reference implementations that push boundaries—turning ambiguous ideas into real systems. Often, you’ll be the first engineer on a project, helping shape its direction and laying the foundation for what comes next. Your work will directly inform the CTO’s technology strategy and influence company-wide investments.

We’re looking for someone who’s hands-on, resourceful, and curious. You’re comfortable moving fast, diving into new technologies, and figuring things out as you go. You’ll lead early investigations and POCs, and then help drive the final design and development of the product or app.

You’re comfortable with ambiguity and driving things forward quickly with energy for idea to Minimum Viable Product (MVP) creation. You’re already very interested in Artificial Intelligence (AI); plays with it in spare time; stays up to date. You’re resourceful in overcoming tech and org barriers and an effective, trusted collaborator and communicator across diverse teams.

This role is all about blending deep technical skills with a love of experimentation. You’ll work with researchers, product teams, and external partners to explore emerging tech and assess its potential. You’ll be part of a team that values bold ideas and rapid iteration. Whether you’re debugging a prototype, writing a quick technical memo, or sharing insights with senior leadership, your work will help shape Microsoft’s long-term tech vision.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

In alignment with our Microsoft values, we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment for all employees to positively impact our culture every day.