> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2410477-principal-software-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2410477-principal-software-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Software Engineer - **Company:** Microsoft - **Location:** Redmond, WA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $165,600.0 - $296,400.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** C (Programming Language), Java (Programming Language), JavaScript (Programming Language), Artificial Intelligence, Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Online Services, C Sharp (Programming Language), C++ (Programming Language), Communications Protocols, Distributed Systems, Python (Programming Language), Software Engineering, Microsoft Power Automate, Large Language Models, Multi-Agent Systems, Information Technology, Software Coding - **Published:** August 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://diversityjobs.com/main/sendform/8/8/28176/1/17793269?backUrl=%2Fcareer%2F17793269%2FPrincipal-Software-Engineer-Washington-Redmond ## About the Role Required/Minimum Qualifications: * 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. 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., * 10+ years of experience in software engineering with a focus on distributed systems, runtime architecture, or platform engineering. * Proven track record of technical leadership at scale, ideally in runtime or orchestration systems. * Deep understanding of extensibility frameworks, plugin architectures, and protocol design. * Solid coding skills in C#, C++, or equivalent systems-level languages. * Experience with LLM-based systems, agentic workflows, or AI orchestration is a plus. * Experience working on Microsoft Copilot, Azure AI, or similar agentic platforms. * Familiarity with declarative programming models and manifest-driven extensibility. * Demonstrated ability to lead cross-org initiatives and influence without authority. #M365Copilot #WorkIQ #AgenticSystems Software Engineering IC6 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $165,600 - $296,400 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 $220,800 - $331,200 per year. ## Description * Architect and evolve the core runtime infrastructure to support. * Agent-to-Agent (A2A) and Multi-Agent Protocols (e.g., MCP). * Declarative and code-based extensibility models. * Runtime patching, flighting, and dynamic configuration. * Runtime extensibility through skills. * Design and implement scalable orchestration patterns for agent collaboration, including delegation, sub-agent invocation, and shared memory contexts. * Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure runtime stability, performance, and security. * Drive innovation in agentic patterns such as proactive agents, long running tasks, async workflows, and dynamic skill selection. * Contribute to the platform roadmap and influence long-term technical strategy. ## Related Videos - [Unleashing the Power of Developers: Why Cybersecurity is the Missing Piece?!?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/712-unleashing-the-power-of-developers-why-cybersecurity-is-the-missing-piece) - [Developer Tools for Microsoft Azure](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/450-developer-tools-for-microsoft-azure) - [Designing and Deploying Distributed Multimodal Multi-Agent Systems with Google's AI Stac](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1976-designing-and-deploying-distributed-multimodal-multi-agent-systems-with-google-s-ai-stac) - [From Syntax to Singularity: AI’s Impact on Developer Roles](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/900-from-syntax-to-singularity-ai-s-impact-on-developer-roles) - [Agentic AI - From Theory to Practice: Developing Multi-Agent AI Systems on Azure](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1532-agentic-ai-from-theory-to-practice-developing-multi-agent-ai-systems-on-azure) - [Coding an Immersive Copilot using Unity / .NET and Azure OpenAI!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1204-coding-an-immersive-copilot-using-unity-net-and-azure-openai) ## Related Articles - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [How Much Does a Software Engineer Make? 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