Application deadline: Apr 19, 2026

At Amazon Web Services, we build the infrastructure that powers the world — and we're looking for a Principal Cloud Hardware Engineer to help define what comes next. This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of physics and planetary-scale systems, leading the engineering of next-generation magnetic storage and the breakthrough technologies poised to replace it.

As a Principal Engineer within AWS Hardware Engineering, you will sit at the center of one of the most consequential technology challenges of our time: designing the storage backbone that enables artificial intelligence to operate at scale, supports the world's most demanding workloads, and stores humanity's data. You won't just optimize existing systems — you'll reshape an entire industry.

Key job responsibilities

Lead end-to-end engineering efforts on next-generation magnetic storage technologies, from the physics of the storage medium to the architecture of the world's largest storage systems

Define the technical vision and roadmap for storage hardware innovation across AWS's global infrastructure

Drive breakthrough research and development on emerging storage technologies positioned to succeed current magnetic storage paradigms

Partner with cross-functional teams spanning hardware, software, systems architecture, and supply chain to bring next-generation storage solutions from concept to hyperscale deployment

Establish engineering standards, best practices, and architectural patterns that influence storage design across AWS

Mentor and develop senior engineers, elevating technical excellence across the organization

Engage with external research institutions, vendors, and industry partners to stay at the forefront of storage innovation

Represent AWS in industry forums and contribute to the broader storage engineering community

About the team
Denver is home to a growing AWS engineering hub where world-class hardware engineers tackle some of the most complex infrastructure challenges on the planet. You'll join a team that operates with the urgency of a startup and the resources of the world's leading cloud provider — with direct impact on the systems that power global commerce, scientific discovery, and the AI revolution.

Basic Qualifications

Previous experience in hardware engineering, with deep expertise in storage technologies (magnetic, solid-state, or emerging media)

Demonstrated mastery of storage physics, media engineering, and system-level architecture

Proven track record of leading large-scale, complex hardware programs from research through production

Experience designing and delivering hardware systems at hyperscale or in high-reliability environments

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence technical direction at the executive level

Preferred Qualifications

PhD or MS in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Computer Engineering, or a related field

Experience with next-generation storage technologies (e.g., HAMR, MAMR, DNA storage, optical, or other emerging media)

Background in data center infrastructure, cloud hardware, or large-scale distributed storage systems

Prior experience in a Principal Engineer or equivalent technical leadership role at a hyperscaler, storage OEM, or advanced research organization

Publications, patents, or recognized contributions to the storage engineering field

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.

The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.

USA, CO, Denver - 189,400.00 - 256,200.00 USD annually