This role pays more than
65%
of similar roles. Most pay
$156,600–$230,250
— the shaded band above.
At the midpoint, this role pays about
$209k
versus about
$193k
for comparable roles.
Based on 240 similar postings.
Employer
About Microsoft
Microsoft Corporation is a global technology leader producing software, hardware, and cloud services including Windows, Office 365, Azure cloud platform, Xbox gaming, and Surface devices. Industry: Software & Cloud Computing
Microsoft currently has
633 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$119,800–$234,700
across 621 roles with salary data.
Principal Mechanical Engineer - AI Systems joins the Mechanical Engineering team to lead the design and deployment of high-density, liquid-cooled systems for Azure datacenters. This role involves developing innovative mechanical designs for server and cooling systems while integrating thermal, structural, and electrical constraints. The engineer will perform predictive analysis using FEA and CFD modeling, conduct empirical testing, and manage material selection and tolerance control to ensure manufacturability and reliability. Key responsibilities include technical pathfinding, mentoring engineers, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to solve complex infrastructure challenges. Required skills include proficiency in CAD software like PTC Creo, knowledge of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and manufacturing processes. The role focuses on the specific domain of cloud infrastructure, specifically addressing the mechanical requirements for liquid-cooled AI and high-performance computing systems within large-scale data center environments.
What does a Mechanical Engineer earn?
Median $151000 from 69 postings across 17 companies.
Lead the design and deployment of high-density, liquid-cooled systems for Azure datacenters.
Develop innovative mechanical designs for server and cooling systems while integrating thermal, structural, and electrical constraints.
Perform advanced modeling using FEA and CFD to validate structural, thermal, and reliability performance.
Ensure manufacturability and cost-efficiency through material selection, tolerance control, and supplier engagement.
Translate business needs into scalable mechanical strategies that align with long-term product vision.
Explore innovative design strategies to anticipate future trends and industry shifts in cloud infrastructure.
Mentor engineers and foster technical growth through challenging assignments and continuous feedback.
Identify and develop intellectual property to contribute to the company's innovation portfolio.
What we're looking for
A Doctorate and 3+ years of experience, a Master's and 4+ years of experience, or a Bachelor's and 6+ years of experience in Mechanical Engineering.
Ability to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Check.
Expertise in CAD software (e.g., PTC Creo), mechanical design principles, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, manufacturing processes, and validation (preferred).
Working knowledge of cloud infrastructure, data center operations, server racks, power distribution, cooling systems, and cable management (preferred).
Prior development experience of liquid cooled AI or HPC systems (preferred).
Experience with developing specifications, interface control documents, and managing design requirements (preferred).
Experience with cabling and networking interconnect technology (preferred).
Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, or related field AND 4+ years related technical engineering.
PTC Creo
Finite Element Analysis
Tolerance Analysis
Root Cause Analysis
Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment
Laser Systems
Mechanical Engineering
Configuration Control