Principal Software Engineer, Windows Apps & Developer Ecosystem

Job ID: 200050174Posted: 2026-08-21Location: United States, Washington, RedmondSalary: USD $142,800 - $274,800 per yearEmployment type: Full-TimeWork site: 3 days / week in-officeRole type: Individual ContributorTravel: Less than 25%Profession: Software EngineeringDiscipline: Software EngineeringCompany: MicrosoftOverviewAre you passionate about Windows apps and the developer ecosystem? Do you have a deep understanding of what it takes to build, publish, and grow successful apps? Are you excited about working at the intersection of product strategy, developer engagement, and platform innovation? The Microsoft Store team is seeking a Principal Software Engineer, Windows Apps & Developer Ecosystem to grow the Windows developer ecosystem and increase the number of high-quality applications on Windows and in the Microsoft Store. As a member of the Microsoft Store leadership team, you will define and execute our developer and independent software vendor (ISV) engagement strategy. You will work with developers, strategic partners, and Microsoft engineering teams to strengthen the app ecosystem, remove barriers to adoption, bring innovation through Artificial Intelligence (AI), influence platform capabilities, and help developers succeed on Windows. You will also apply your technical expertise to guide application architecture and identify opportunities for new services, Software Development Kits (SDKs), Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), and tools. Where needed, you will lead or contribute directly to the design and development of these capabilities. At Microsoft, our mission—to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more—guides how we partner with customers to deliver trusted, impactful solutions. With a growth mindset culture, we innovate responsibly and measure success by shared progress—people, teams, and customers. Join us to do meaningful work that changes the world and helps shape what’s next for everyone.ResponsibilitiesBuild trusted relationships with developers, ISVs, and Microsoft product teams, helping them publish and grow successful applications on Windows. Lead complex technical engagements across application architecture, distribution, commerce, analytics, and lifecycle management. Design and build developer-facing services, SDKs, APIs, and tooling that simplify app development, increase platform adoption, and help developers succeed on Windows. Represent the voice of the developer ecosystem by translating customer feedback, market trends, and industry insights into platform strategy, product investments, and roadmap priorities. Own ambiguous, cross-team initiatives from discovery and technical strategy through implementation, launch, and measurement, creating clarity across organizational boundaries and ensuring solutions meet high standards for quality, security, reliability, and maintainability. Define success measures for developer engagements and platform initiatives, use feedback and data to evaluate outcomes, and apply those learnings to improve future investments and developer experiences. QualificationsRequired QualificationsBachelor'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 PythonOR equivalent experience.Other RequirementsAbility 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 Qualifications10+ years of experience building and shipping native applications on Windows or other modern client platforms. Experience publishing, operating, or growing applications through an app store ecosystem. Experience working directly with developers or software vendors (ISVs) to resolve complex technical challenges and drive product adoption. Deep expertise in Windows application development, developer tooling, and platform technologies. Deep understanding of app publishing, commerce, acquisition, engagement, and growth through the Microsoft Store. Experience designing or building developer-facing SDKs, APIs, frameworks, services, or tooling. Experience leading complex technical initiatives from concept through delivery, influencing without direct authority. Experience with cross-platform, mobile, or desktop application ecosystems. Solid written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with developers, engineering teams, and executive stakeholders. Experience troubleshooting and optimizing application performance, distribution, monetization, and developer experience at scale. Strategic mindset with solid analytical and problem-solving skills. Demonstrated leadership through technical influence, innovation, and execution. #W+DJOBSSoftware Engineering IC5 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $142,800 - $274,800 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 $188,000 - $304,200 per year. Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.