Principal Software Engineering Lead

Xbox Game Studios division building the future of the Halo series with Unreal Engine
$137,600 - $267,000
Backend
Principal Software Engineer
Hybrid
15+ years of experience
Gaming

Description For Principal Software Engineering Lead

Halo Studios, part of Xbox Game Studios, is seeking a Principal Software Engineering Lead to spearhead the engineering team for their next major title using Unreal Engine 5. This role combines technical leadership with people management, requiring an experienced game developer who can guide a large engineering team in creating AAA video games.

The position involves leading the development of a multi-platform, multiplayer shooter, managing diverse engineering talent, and making critical technical decisions while ensuring team health and project success. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in game development, particularly with Unreal Engine, and a proven track record of shipping successful titles.

Working in a hybrid environment (up to two days remote work per week), you'll collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver engineering solutions that match project goals and timelines. The role requires expertise in scaling technology for millions of players across various hardware platforms and establishing engineering systems focused on continuous feature delivery.

Microsoft offers a comprehensive benefits package including industry-leading healthcare, educational resources, savings and investment options, parental leave, and generous time off. The position comes with competitive compensation, with base pay ranging from $137,600 to $267,000 per year (higher ranges for SF Bay Area and NYC).

This is an opportunity to shape the future of the iconic Halo franchise while working with cutting-edge technology and leading a team of talented engineers. The role combines technical excellence with strategic leadership, making it ideal for someone passionate about both game development and team management.

Last updated a day ago

Responsibilities For Principal Software Engineering Lead

  • Lead the engineering team for an Unreal Engine 5 based AAA, multi-platform, multiplayer shooter
  • Manage a diverse range of talented engineers, spanning various career stages
  • Attract and retain great talent
  • Help the team adapt and learn; model resourcefulness and initiative
  • Work with multiple external co-development engineering teams
  • Collaborate amongst a cross-functional leadership team
  • Drive technical excellence across the team
  • Develop engineering systems & culture centered around continuous feature delivery
  • Identify & direct engineering investments for product quality goals

Requirements For Principal Software Engineering Lead

Java
JavaScript
Python
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related technical discipline AND 6+ years technical engineering experience
  • 6+ years experience developing with 4+ years experience managing engineering teams for AAA video games
  • Experience shipping 1+ online multiplayer game as lead engineer
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience with Unreal Engine
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Computer Science (preferred)
  • 15+ years technical engineering experience (preferred)
  • 2+ shipped video games on console and/or PC (preferred)
  • 10+ years experience leading engineering teams (preferred)

Benefits For Principal Software Engineering Lead

Medical Insurance
Education Budget
Parental Leave
  • Industry leading healthcare
  • Educational resources
  • Discounts on products and services
  • Savings and investments
  • Maternity and paternity leave
  • Generous time away
  • Giving programs
  • Opportunities to network and connect

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