Hardware Engineer

Microsoft•Redmond, WA

4d•$85,400 - $183,700

About The Position

As a Device Analysis Engineer, you will perform failure analysis and material characterization using cutting-edge instrumentation, analytical techniques, and critical thinking to identify failure mechanisms and root causes for complex engineering issues. In addition to hands-on analytical investigations, this role owns the operational management of Device Analysis Engineering laboratories and the RDES budget, including laboratory planning, equipment management, procurement activities, vendor management, purchase orders, invoice processing, budget forecasting, and laboratory infrastructure support. The successful candidate will ensure DAE laboratories maintain the capabilities, resources, and operational efficiency required to support Microsoft’s Surface, Xbox, Cloud, and Quantum programs. 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.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field OR equivalent experience
Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements.
Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.
Citizenship & Citizenship Verification: This role will require access to information that is controlled for export under export control regulations, potentially under the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR), the EU Dual Use Regulation, and/or other export control regulations. As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will be required to provide either proof of their country of citizenship or proof of their U.S. permanent residency or other protected status (e.g., under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)) for assessment of eligibility to access the export-controlled information. To meet this legal requirement, and as a condition of employment, the successful candidate’s citizenship will be verified with a valid passport. Lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees may verify status using other documents, where applicable.

Nice To Haves

1+ years of experience in materials characterization, physical failure analysis, laboratory operations, or related engineering disciplines.
Hands-on experience with failure analysis and analytical techniques such as 2D/3D X-ray, Mechanical Cross-Sectioning/Dye & Pry, SEM/EDS, FTIR, Optical Microscopy, and XRF.
Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills.
Ability to clearly communicate analytical findings through written reports and presentations.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment supporting both technical investigations and laboratory operations.
Experience with laboratory operations, including equipment management, calibration, maintenance, inventory control, and laboratory safety practices.
Experience managing budgets, purchase orders (POs), invoices, vendor relationships, equipment procurement, and operational expenditures.
Experience coordinating with internal and external laboratories, equipment suppliers, and service providers.
B.S. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.

Responsibilities

Performs material characterization and physical failure analysis on components, subsystems, and products.
Uses analytical techniques to identify failure mechanisms and determine root causes.
Supports engineering investigations during product development, qualification, manufacturing, and sustaining phases.
Works closely with Development, Manufacturing, Reliability, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to support engineering investigations and product improvements.
Communicates technical findings through clear reports, presentations, and engineering reviews.
Assists in developing and improving analytical methodologies, laboratory procedures, and best practices.
Owns day-to-day operation of DAE laboratories to ensure safe, efficient, and effective execution of analytical activities.
Manages the laboratory equipment lifecycle, including procurement, calibration, maintenance, repair, and replacement.
Maintains laboratory inventory, consumables, chemicals, software licenses, and service agreements.
Develops and maintain laboratory operating procedures, safety practices, asset-tracking processes, and maintenance schedules.
Ensures laboratory readiness and operational efficiency to support engineering investigations and business priorities.
Supports implementation of new analytical capabilities and laboratory improvements.
Owns the RDES operating budget, including annual planning, forecasting, spending reviews, and expense tracking.
Manages laboratory operating expenses, capital equipment purchases, maintenance contracts, software licenses, and external analytical service costs.
Develops business justifications for equipment purchases, laboratory upgrades, and capability investments.
Monitors expenditures and ensure spending remains aligned with approved budgets.
Partners with Finance and Procurement teams to support budget execution and compliance with company policies.
Manages procurement activities, including vendor quotations, purchase requisitions, purchase orders (POs), invoice approvals, and contract coordination.
Manages relationships with equipment suppliers, service providers, and external laboratories.
Ensures timely acquisition of equipment, consumables, and services required to support laboratory operations.
Coordinates with internal and external laboratories to support analysis projects and business needs.