Software Engineer II

Within the Developer Division, the Languages, Runtimes, and Compilers Group at Microsoft is responsible for best-in-class support for C++, Java, .NET (C#, Visual Basic, and F#), Python, Rust, and Go. Developer Division in Core AI believes that software development is rapidly evolving in the age of AI. We are building the future of platforms and tools for this new era—and we are looking for developers who are not only early adopters of AI-powered development tools, but who are also actively exploring how large language models (LLMs) can enhance their effectiveness and impact.  Be a part of a team that values collaboration and the idea of working better together. Come and help us define the language, optimize the compiler and runtime, and build tools that empower developers worldwide to build great software. 

If you are ready to take on your next big challenge, join us to help redefine the future of developer tools. We are building the next generation of Python development experiences, combining state-of-the-art language services with AI-powered assistance.

Our team owns pylance, the leading Python language server, and debugpy, the Python debugger behind Visual Studio Code. We are now pushing further into the age of AI: integrating with GitHub Copilot, improving agent chat context with real-time diagnostic and linting insights, developing Model Context Protocol (MCP) tools, and reimagining debugging and software development in a world where AI and humans collaborate closely.

We are looking for a Software Engineer II to contribute at the forefront of this transformation. You will work on cutting-edge problems in language tooling, debugging, static analysis, and AI-assisted development — and shape the experience of millions of Python developers worldwide.

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.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related technical field AND 2+ years technical engineering experience with coding in Python and one or more of: TypeScript, JavaScript, Rust
  • OR equivalent experience.
• 6+ months of experience using AI-assisted development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, or similar) to enhance productivity and code quality.
• Experience applying AI technologies (such as large language models or code generation tools) in software development workflows, including tasks like static analysis, automated documentation, or test generation.

Other Requirements:

• Ability 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: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud background check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Computer Science or related technical field AND 2+ years technical engineering experience with coding in Python and one or more of: TypeScript, JavaScript, Rust
  • OR Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related technical field AND 4+ years technical engineering experience with coding in Python and one or more of: TypeScript, JavaScript, Rust
  • OR equivalent experience.
• Experience with the internals of compiler and language service concepts such as parsing, type inference, diagnostics, static/dynamic analysis and experiene with developer tools, IDE extensions (Visual Studio or VS Code), or similar ecosystems.
• 1+ years of experience using AI-assisted development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, or similar) to enhance productivity and code quality
• 1+ years of experience applying AI technologies (such as large language models or code generation tools) in software development workflows, including tasks like static analysis, automated documentation, or test generation

Software Engineering IC3 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $100,600 - $199,000 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 $131,400 - $215,400 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

Microsoft posts positions for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled

#DevDiv #DDJL 

• Contribute to the design and implementation of core features in Pylance, debugpy, and related tools.
• Collaborate with AI teams to enhance Copilot chat and agent experiences with rich language and debugging context.
• Contribute to the delivery of Model Context Protocol (MCP) integrations for Python and multi-language workflows.
• Engage with customers through GitHub, feedback channels, and direct interactions to gather insights and represent the Python developer's voice.