Senior Software Engineer - UX Incubation

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Software Engineer - UX Incubation
Company: Microsoft
Location: Redmond, Washington, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Software Engineering / UX Incubation
Date Posted: October 28, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the innovation and delivery of AI-powered user experiences within the Windows + Devices division, specifically within the Microsoft Applied Sciences Group (ASG).
• Spearhead the end-to-end development of prototypes, from initial research and design through to production-ready code, to validate feasibility and influence product strategy.
• Develop high-performance C++ and C# systems on Windows, integrating cloud components and ensuring seamless UI integration.
• Craft modern, accessible web user interfaces using TypeScript and contemporary frameworks, collaborating closely with designers to achieve polished UX outcomes.
• Integrate advanced AI capabilities, including Large Language Models (LLMs), vision, and speech technologies, to significantly elevate user value and product differentiation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Microsoft Applied Sciences Group (ASG), a specialized unit focused on cutting-edge AI and UX innovation. The emphasis is on prototyping and driving product decisions, requiring a blend of deep technical expertise and a strong understanding of user experience principles. The "UX Incubation" aspect highlights a focus on exploring novel interaction paradigms and advanced technologies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead prototype development from conception to completion, ensuring feasibility and impact on product roadmap decisions.
• Design, build, and maintain high-performance C++ and C# software systems for Windows, incorporating cloud services and user interface integrations.
• Develop and implement modern, accessible web UIs using TypeScript and modern JavaScript frameworks, ensuring a high-quality user experience.
• Integrate and leverage AI technologies (LLMs, computer vision, speech recognition) to create innovative and intelligent user experiences.
• Foster strong cross-team collaboration with product teams, designers, and researchers to transition successful prototypes into product features.
• Mentor junior engineers and peers on best practices in software development, design trade-offs, and the application of AI in UX.
• Conduct research and identify emerging technologies and trends that can enhance user experiences.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of engineering processes and standards within the ASG.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities emphasize a full-cycle development approach for prototypes, from ideation to production-readiness. A key facet is the integration of AI and modern web technologies, alongside strong collaboration and mentorship, indicating a senior-level expectation of technical leadership and strategic contribution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field. A Master's degree or PhD is a plus, particularly with a focus on AI, Machine Learning, or Human-Computer Interaction.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of professional software development experience, with a strong track record in building and shipping complex software systems.
• Proven experience in leading end-to-end prototype development and driving product decisions based on technical feasibility and user impact.
• Demonstrable experience in working with AI/ML technologies and integrating them into software products.

Required Skills:

• Programming Languages: Proficiency in C++ and C# for developing high-performance systems on Windows.
• Web Technologies: Strong command of TypeScript and modern JavaScript frameworks (e.g., React, Angular, Vue.js) for building contemporary web UIs.
• AI/ML Integration: Experience integrating AI models and services (e.g., LLMs, computer vision, speech) into applications.
• System Design & Architecture: Ability to design scalable, performant, and maintainable software systems.
• Cross-Team Collaboration: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams, including product managers, designers, and researchers.
• Prototyping & Validation: Proven ability to rapidly prototype, validate ideas, and iterate based on feedback.
• User Experience Focus: A keen understanding of UX principles and a passion for creating delightful and accessible user experiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Cloud Platforms: Experience with cloud computing services (e.g., Azure, AWS, GCP) for backend components.
• Embedded Systems: Familiarity with developing for embedded platforms.
• UI/UX Design Tools: Experience working with design tools and collaborating with UX designers.
• Research & Development: A background in R&D or applied sciences, with a track record of innovation.
• Mentorship: Experience mentoring junior engineers and leading technical discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a need for a versatile engineer with deep expertise in C++/C# for systems development and TypeScript for modern web UIs. The emphasis on AI integration and prototyping suggests a role at the forefront of innovation, requiring individuals who can bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and practical product application. Experience with cloud and embedded platforms broadens the scope of potential projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least 2-3 significant projects that demonstrate end-to-end prototype development, highlighting the problem statement, your technical approach, and the resulting user experience.
• Include examples where AI/ML was integrated to solve a user problem or enhance functionality, detailing the specific models or techniques used and the measurable impact.
• Provide examples of high-performance C++/C# systems or modern web applications (TypeScript) you have built, emphasizing scalability, efficiency, and robust UI integration.
• Demonstrate your ability to move from concept to production-ready code, illustrating a project lifecycle from initial research and design through to implementation and validation.

Process Documentation:

• For each portfolio project, be prepared to discuss your design process, including how you approached feasibility studies, user research, and technical decision-making.
• Be ready to explain your workflow for integrating AI models, including data preparation, model selection/development, and deployment strategies.
• Detail your approach to system architecture, emphasizing how you ensured performance, maintainability, and scalability for both Windows applications and cloud components.
• Be prepared to articulate how you collaborated with designers and product teams to ensure the delivered UX met product goals and user needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that clearly articulates their experience in building innovative prototypes, particularly those incorporating AI. The emphasis is on demonstrating a complete development lifecycle and the ability to translate complex technical solutions into tangible, user-centric experiences. A strong understanding of process, from research to implementation and collaboration, is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on Microsoft's compensation structure for Senior Software Engineers in Redmond, Washington, with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated annual base salary range is between $140,000 and $190,000. This range can be influenced by factors such as specific experience, interview performance, and internal equity. Total compensation may also include performance-based bonuses and stock awards.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• Paid parental leave and family-friendly benefits.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, conferences, and tuition reimbursement.
• Access to Microsoft's extensive internal learning resources and employee assistance programs.
• On-site amenities at the Redmond campus, such as fitness centers, cafes, and shuttle services.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• Flexibility may be offered based on team needs and project deadlines, with the expectation of meeting project milestones and collaborating effectively with team members across different time zones when necessary.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering roles at major tech companies in the Seattle metropolitan area and Microsoft's publicly available compensation philosophies. Benefits are standard for large tech firms and are designed to support employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, Software Development, Artificial Intelligence, User Experience Design. Microsoft is a global leader in software, services, devices, and solutions, driving innovation across multiple sectors. Company Size: Microsoft is a very large enterprise, employing over 200,000 individuals worldwide. This scale provides access to vast resources, diverse projects, and extensive career development opportunities. Founded: 1975. With a long history of innovation, Microsoft has continuously evolved, adapting to new technological landscapes and shaping the future of computing.

Team Structure:

• The Applied Sciences Group (ASG) is a specialized research and development team within Windows + Devices. It operates with a culture of innovation, curiosity, and high technical craftsmanship.
• Teams within ASG are typically cross-functional, comprising software engineers, researchers, designers, and product managers, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Reporting structures are designed to empower individual contributors and foster autonomy, with senior engineers often leading projects and mentoring others.

Methodology:

• ASG emphasizes a data-driven approach, using prototypes and user testing to validate concepts and inform product direction.
• Agile methodologies are likely employed for rapid iteration and development of prototypes, allowing for quick adaptation to new findings.
• A strong focus on scientific rigor and engineering excellence guides the development process, ensuring that innovations are both novel and robust.

Company Website: https://www.microsoft.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Microsoft's culture is characterized by a growth mindset, a commitment to innovation, and a focus on empowering individuals and organizations. ASG, as a specialized group, likely fosters a more experimental and forward-thinking environment, encouraging deep technical exploration and creative problem-solving.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a Senior Software Engineer, typically requiring 5-10 years of experience. It represents a mid-to-senior level position with expectations of technical leadership, independent project execution, and mentorship. Reporting Structure: Senior Software Engineers in ASG typically report to a Group Engineering Manager or Principal Engineer. They work within project teams, collaborating closely with peers, designers, and product managers. Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role (like RevOps or SalesOps), this Senior Software Engineer role has a significant impact on the future of Microsoft's products by incubating novel AI-powered user experiences. The success of these prototypes directly influences product roadmaps and the development of next-generation technology, ultimately driving user engagement and market adoption.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in AI/ML, C++, C#, or modern web development through challenging projects and advanced training.
• Leadership Development: Progress to a Principal Engineer role, technical lead for a project, or management track by demonstrating strong technical leadership, mentorship, and strategic thinking.
• Cross-Divisional Mobility: Opportunities to move into other specialized engineering teams within Microsoft, or to contribute to larger product initiatives across different divisions.
• Research & Publication: Contribute to research papers, patents, and industry conferences, positioning oneself as a thought leader in AI and UX.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Senior Software Engineer at Microsoft is robust, offering multiple avenues for advancement. The "UX Incubation" focus provides a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology and influence future product directions, contributing to significant business impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The Redmond campus is a large, modern corporate headquarters featuring state-of-the-art office spaces designed for collaboration and innovation. This includes open-plan areas, private offices, meeting rooms, and specialized labs conducive to R&D. Office Location(s): The primary work location is Redmond, Washington, United States. This campus is a hub for Microsoft's product development and research activities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed to encourage interaction and knowledge sharing among engineers, designers, and researchers.
• Advanced Tools & Technology: Access to high-performance computing resources, specialized hardware, and a comprehensive suite of development tools and software.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with team members, participation in brainstorming sessions, code reviews, and project planning meetings.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility for project needs. The on-site nature of the role encourages in-person collaboration, team synchronization, and an immersive work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Redmond campus offers a dynamic and well-equipped environment for engineers. The emphasis on an on-site presence suggests a culture that values in-person collaboration, spontaneous ideation, and the synergy that comes from shared physical workspace, especially for innovative R&D.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screen: A recruiter screen to assess general fit, interest in Microsoft, and basic qualifications.
• Technical Phone Screens (1-2): These typically involve problem-solving, data structures, algorithms, and coding challenges, often conducted via shared online editors. Focus will be on C++, C#, or TypeScript proficiency.
• On-site Interviews (or Virtual Loop): This usually consists of 4-5 interviews, each 45-60 minutes long. Expect a mix of:
  • Coding/Algorithm Interviews: Deeper dives into programming logic and problem-solving.
  • System Design Interviews: Designing scalable and performant systems, relevant to high-performance C++/C# or web architectures.
  • Behavioral Interviews: Assessing collaboration, leadership, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit using the STAR method.
  • UX/AI Focus Interviews: Discussions on your experience with AI integration, user experience design principles, and prototyping methodologies.
• Hiring Manager/Team Fit Interview: A final conversation to gauge team synergy and align on role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly state the problem solved, your specific contribution, the technologies used, and any quantifiable outcomes (e.g., performance improvements, user engagement metrics, feasibility proven).
• Showcase AI Integration: Dedicate specific examples to how you've integrated AI/ML. Detail the challenges, your approach to model selection or development, and the resulting user benefits.
• Highlight C++/C# & TypeScript: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates strong capabilities in these core languages, showcasing complex system design or modern web UI development.
• Structure Your Narrative: Be prepared to walk through your projects, explaining your thought process, design choices, and lessons learned. Focus on the "why" behind your decisions.
• Tailor to ASG: Emphasize projects that align with ASG's mission: AI-powered UX, rapid prototyping, and driving product innovation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Coding: Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode (focus on Medium/Hard for Senior roles), emphasizing efficiency, edge cases, and clean code.
• System Design: Study common system design patterns, scalability, availability, and performance optimization techniques. Be ready to whiteboard or draw system diagrams.
• Behavioral: Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for common leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and conflict resolution scenarios.
• AI/UX Concepts: Refresh your understanding of core AI/ML concepts, common LLM use cases, and principles of user-centered design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process at Microsoft is rigorous and multi-faceted, designed to assess technical depth, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates impact and showcases relevant technical skills, especially in AI and core programming languages, is critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Development Languages: C++, C#, TypeScript.
• Operating Systems: Windows (primary target), potentially Linux and macOS for development/cloud.
• IDE: Visual Studio, VS Code.
• Version Control: Git (Azure Repos or GitHub).
• Build Systems: MSBuild, CMake.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Telemetry & Analytics: Microsoft's internal telemetry systems, potentially Azure Monitor, Application Insights.
• Data Analysis: Python (with libraries like Pandas, NumPy), SQL.
• Visualization: Power BI, internal dashboarding tools.

CRM & Automation:

• Cloud Platforms: Microsoft Azure (essential for cloud components, AI services like Azure OpenAI, Machine Learning).
• Containerization: Docker, Kubernetes (for cloud deployments).
• CI/CD: Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions for automated build, test, and deployment pipelines.
• AI/ML Frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, ONNX Runtime.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack reflects Microsoft's ecosystem, with a strong emphasis on Azure, C++, C#, and TypeScript. Proficiency in modern development tools, cloud services, and AI/ML frameworks is expected, underscoring the role's focus on cutting-edge technology development.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Curiosity: A drive to explore new ideas, question existing paradigms, and experiment with novel technologies, particularly in AI and UX.
• Craftsmanship & Quality: Commitment to building high-quality, robust, and performant software, with attention to detail and best practices.
• Impact & Ownership: Taking end-to-end responsibility for projects, from conception to delivery, and focusing on delivering tangible value to users and the business.
• Collaboration & Inclusivity: Working effectively with diverse teams, valuing different perspectives, and fostering an inclusive environment where all team members can contribute and thrive.
• Growth Mindset: A continuous learning attitude, embracing challenges, and seeking opportunities for personal and professional development.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Close collaboration with designers, researchers, product managers, and other engineers is fundamental to the prototyping and incubation process.
• Open Communication: A culture of open dialogue, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing through design reviews, code reviews, and team meetings.
• Agile & Iterative: Embracing agile methodologies to facilitate rapid iteration, adaptability, and continuous improvement based on testing and feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture within ASG is likely a blend of Microsoft's broader corporate values and a specific emphasis on cutting-edge R&D. The core tenets revolve around innovation, technical excellence, and collaborative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pioneering New Technologies: Working at the forefront of AI and UX means navigating uncharted territory, requiring adaptability and the ability to solve complex, often ill-defined problems.
• Rapid Prototyping Cycles: Balancing the need for speed in prototyping with the requirement for robust, well-architected code can be demanding.
• AI Integration Complexity: Integrating AI models effectively into user-facing applications involves overcoming challenges related to performance, latency, accuracy, and user trust.
• Cross-Team Alignment: Ensuring prototypes are well-received and can be successfully transitioned into product roadmaps requires strong stakeholder management and communication skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Access to Leading AI Research: Direct involvement with cutting-edge AI research and development within Microsoft.
• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to attend internal and external training sessions, workshops, and conferences focused on AI, ML, and software engineering.
• Mentorship Programs: Formal and informal mentorship opportunities with experienced engineers and researchers within ASG and the broader Microsoft organization.
• Internal Mobility: A clear path for career progression within Microsoft, with opportunities to lead projects, teams, or specialize further in AI/UX.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents exciting challenges at the intersection of AI, software engineering, and UX. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for those interested in shaping the future of user interaction through innovative technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the intricacies of C++, C#, and TypeScript development, including performance optimization, memory management, and modern language features. For AI, be ready to explain concepts like neural networks, LLMs, and their practical application.
• System Design Scenarios: Practice designing complex systems, focusing on scalability, reliability, and user experience. Consider how AI components integrate into these designs. For example, "Design a system for real-time AI-powered content moderation for a video streaming service."
• AI/UX Integration Case Studies: Prepare to discuss how you've used AI to enhance user experience in past projects. Think about specific UX challenges and how AI provided a novel solution. For instance, "Describe a time you used machine learning to personalize a user interface or content delivery."
• Prototyping & Iteration: Be ready to explain your process for rapid prototyping, user validation, and iterating on designs based on feedback. How do you balance speed with quality?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Microsoft's Mission: Understand Microsoft's mission to "empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more" and how ASG's work contributes to it.
• Growth Mindset: Prepare to discuss how you embrace challenges, learn from failures, and continuously seek to improve.
• Collaboration: Have examples ready of successful cross-functional collaboration, particularly with designers and product managers, using the STAR method.
• Impact: Be ready to articulate the impact of your work, not just technically, but on the user and the business.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, your specific role, and the measurable outcomes. Quantify wherever possible.
• Showcase AI & UX Connection: Explicitly highlight how AI was used to create a better user experience. Explain the "why" behind the AI integration.
• Technical Clarity: Be prepared to dive deep into the technical details of your C++/C# or TypeScript implementations, explaining design choices and trade-offs.
• Conciseness: Present your projects efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects that align with ASG's goals. Aim for clear, impactful storytelling.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of strong software engineering fundamentals, a forward-thinking approach to AI and UX, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a large, innovative organization like Microsoft.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Microsoft Careers portal using the provided job URL.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and any linked portfolio (e.g., GitHub, personal website) to highlight your most relevant experience in C++, C#, TypeScript, AI/ML integration, and UX prototyping. Prioritize projects that showcase end-to-end development and measurable impact.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience, key technical skills, and achievements using action verbs and quantifying results. Integrate keywords such as "AI," "ML," "UX," "prototype," "C++," "C#," "TypeScript," and "cloud."
• Interview Preparation: Systematically prepare for coding, system design, and behavioral interviews. Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex technical challenges or AI/UX concepts.
• Company Research: Deeply understand Microsoft's mission, values, and the specific work of the Applied Sciences Group. Be ready to discuss how your skills and interests align with the team's focus on innovation and AI-powered user experiences.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

---