Organization: Microsoft
Location: United States, Multiple Locations. Remote
Employment Type: Full Time
Work Model: Fully remote with limited travel
Travel Requirement: Less than 25 percent
Job Number: 200018571
Discipline: Hardware Engineering
Role Type: Individual Contributor
Role Overview
Microsoft Cloud Operations and Innovation plays a critical role in powering global cloud infrastructure. Within this group, the Datacenter Engineering team designs and delivers large-scale, complex data center projects that support some of the world’s most widely used digital services.
The organization is seeking a highly motivated Data Center Design Architect who can contribute architectural leadership across multi-year data center construction, leasing, and retrofit initiatives. The role focuses on designing reliable, scalable, and efficient physical infrastructure while maintaining Microsoft’s quality, sustainability, and operational standards.
In line with Microsoft values, the company continues to foster an inclusive and supportive work culture that empowers employees to make a meaningful impact every day.
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Key Responsibilities and Focus Areas
Architectural Design and Technical Leadership
The architect leads architectural planning and design decisions by evaluating complexity, cost impact, reliability, quality, and delivery timelines. They review design documentation, including drawings, specifications, and diagrams, while collaborating closely with internal engineering teams.
Data Center Infrastructure Development
This role drives the design of physical networking and data center architectural systems across Microsoft-owned and leased facilities. The architect resolves design challenges during construction and ensures consistency with approved standards and requirements.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
The position requires close coordination with Datacenter Operations, Global Technical Governance, Strategy teams, and external consultants. The architect leads design workgroups, facilitates cross-functional meetings, and supports multiple concurrent capital projects.
Project Oversight and Risk Management
The architect manages architectural risks, design decisions, and technical issues across large-scale projects. They contribute to efficiency improvements, develop statements of work, and evaluate bids and design options to support informed decision-making.
Site Selection and Due Diligence
The role supports site selection, master planning, permitting, and due diligence activities. It also includes architectural oversight for renovations, retrofits, refresh projects, and special non-standard initiatives.
Design Review and Documentation
Responsibilities include reviewing and producing architectural specifications, schedules, and drawings using CAD or Revit tools. The architect also provides technical direction to external architecture and engineering firms.
Construction Support and Quality Assurance
The architect provides both remote and on-site support throughout construction. This includes design reviews, technical guidance, and quality checks to ensure compliance from early design through final handover.
Best Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate demonstrates strong analytical thinking, structured problem-solving, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. They communicate effectively with technical leadership and maintain a customer-focused mindset. Experience with large-scale data center environments and architectural standards is essential.
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Education and Qualifications
Required Qualifications
A Master’s degree in Architecture or a related field.
Or a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a related field with at least two years of technical engineering experience.
Equivalent professional experience may also be considered.
Preferred Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree with five or more years of architecture experience.
Or a Master’s degree with three or more years of relevant architecture experience.
Registered Architect certification is strongly preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
The typical base salary range for this role across the United States is USD 100,600 to 199,000 per year.
For roles based in the San Francisco Bay Area and the New York City metropolitan area, the range increases to USD 131,400-215,400 per year.
Additional compensation, incentives, and comprehensive benefits may apply depending on role eligibility and location.
Application Process
Interested candidates should apply through Microsoft’s official careers platform. The application process may include resume screening, technical evaluations, and interviews with cross-functional stakeholders. Applicants requiring accommodations during the hiring process can request support through Microsoft’s accessibility resources.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics. The organization remains committed to providing an accessible, inclusive, and respectful hiring experience for every candidate.