Principal UX Designer

The Cloud + AI team within the Windows and Devices Design organization is seeking a Principal UX Designer with a passion for creating innovative multi-modal interactions that bridge hardware and software experiences. In this role, you will lead the design direction for Microsoft's future interactions with technology across a variety of devices. You will work closely with a dynamic, cross-disciplinary team, setting a strategic design direction that combines cutting-edge AI, software development, and hardware integration. This is an exciting opportunity to influence the development of next-generation products at Microsoft, delivering intuitive, inclusive, and accessible user experiences.

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 Industrial Design, Product Design, Human Computer Interaction, User Experience, Interaction Design, or related field AND 8+ years experience working in product or service design
  • OR Master's Degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, Human Computer Interaction, User Experience, Interaction Design, or related field AND 6+ years experience working in product or service design
  • OR equivalent experience (e.g., demonstrated experience working in product or service design or using design thinking to solve problems).

Other Requirements:

Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements that are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings:  

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

Preferred Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in user experience design, with a portfolio showcasing work in multi-modal interaction (voice, hardware-software integration) and product design.
• Experience with prototyping tools.
• Familiarity with hardware-software ecosystems and designing for connected devices.
• Enthusiasm for exploring the future of AI in consumer electronics and cloud-powered devices.
• Experience working with AI and hardware products.
• Demonstrated experience in designing for AI-powered and multi-modal interactions. 
• Proven track record of shipping digital products and collaborating with software development teams. 
• Visual design skills with attention to detail and craftsmanship. 
• Expertise in industry-standard design tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar software. 
• Communication skills and the ability to present design decisions to a wide range of audiences, from developers to executives. 
• Knowledge of accessibility best practices and inclusive design principles.

• Lead the design of compelling multi-modal interactions that blend hardware and software experiences. 
• Collaborate with senior leadership, product management, engineering, and research teams to shape and deliver high-quality, innovative designs that meet both business goals and user needs. 
• Oversee the end-to-end UX design process, from concept to production, ensuring design feasibility and success in shipping digital products. 
• Advocate for user-centered design principles and accessibility, creating inclusive experiences for all users. 
• Present design concepts and decisions to executive leadership and stakeholders, articulating design rationale clearly and effectively. 
• Mentor and develop a team of UX designers, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation. 
• Embody our and