Overview:

• As Microsoft continues to push the boundaries of AI, we are on the lookout for passionate individuals to work with us on the most interesting and challenging AI questions of our time. Our vision is bold and broad — to build systems that have true artificial intelligence across agents, applications, services, and infrastructure. It’s also inclusive: we aim to make AI accessible to all — consumers, businesses, developers — so that everyone can realize its benefits. Microsoft AI (MAI) is seeking experienced Member of Technical Staff
• Copilot AI Companion Engineering Manager to lead building high-performing, emotional, delightful character experience in Copilot. You’ll work in a deeply iterative, collaborative, fast-paced environment to bring our technology to millions of users around the world. You will lead a team of talented software engineers to deliver world-class AI companion experiences that are secure, reliable, and scalable, while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams including Product, Design, and Research. We value engineers who are self-starters, care deeply about the end user experience, and take pride in building products to solve customer needs. 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. Starting January 26, 2026, MAI employees are expected to work from a designated Microsoft office at least four days a week if they live within 50 miles (U.S.) or 25 miles (non-U.S., country-specific) of that location. This expectation is subject to local law and may vary by jurisdiction.

Responsibilities:

• Hire, manage, and lead a team of software engineers responsible for delivering high-performing, emotional, delightful AI character experiences Ship AI powered experiences that will shape how millions of people will interact with AI in the future

• Collaborate with Eng, Design and Product leadership to prioritize features and deliver a world-class AI companion to the world

• Design and build a performant AI Character infrastructure that drives fast, reliable, and scalable character experiences

• Drive implementation of features and systems, breaking down long-term goals into clear milestones, aligning with release plans, and ensuring cross-team coordination.

• Embody our Culture and Values.

Qualifications Required Qualifications- Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, or related technical discipline AND 6+ years technical engineering experience with coding in languages including, but not limited to, C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, or Python OR equivalent experience.
Preferred Qualifications- Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, or related technical discipline AND 8+ years technical engineering experience with coding in languages including, but not limited to, C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, or Python OR Master'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.

• 6+ years people management experience.
• Experience leading engineering teams to deliver large-scale software systems, preferably in AI, machine learning, graphics or related fields.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and are comfortable making progress in ambiguity.
• Enjoy working closely with cross-functional partners and teammates in an inclusive, curious culture.
• Have strong opinions about best investments to make in establishing the most delightful and performant AI companion engineering system.

Software Engineering M5 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $139,900 - $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:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay

Software Engineering M6 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $163,000 - $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.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay

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.