Join Azure AI Knowledge (Search) as an Engineering Manager and drive the future of AI-powered search solutions. This role focuses on enhancing Azure's AI Search capabilities, a crucial component for modern AI applications, particularly in RAG workflows for enterprises. You will be instrumental in researching, designing, and delivering cutting-edge product features, building scalable distributed systems, and developing advanced tooling for a globally distributed service. The Azure AI Search team fosters a collaborative, data-driven environment that values diverse perspectives and promotes continuous innovation. We pride ourselves on building robust services infused with AI, impacting tens of thousands of customers worldwide. Our lean, customer-obsessed approach ensures rapid iteration and immediate customer impact.

We cultivate a supportive and inclusive culture, recognizing the importance of work-life balance, including ample vacation time and paid parental leave. Our team thrives on diversity, believing it's key to creating the best solutions and enjoying the process. A people-first philosophy underpins our commitment to sustainably operating 24x7 cloud services.

Lead and nurture a high-performing team of software engineers, guiding project planning, work prioritization, and feature design. Foster an inclusive environment where every team member can excel through dedicated support and mentorship. Drive the architecture and implementation of scalable, highly available, and globally deployed core search service capabilities. Champion a culture of software quality, focusing on efficient DevOps practices, robust customer support, and extensive automation. Analyze telemetry and usage data to inform strategic product decisions and effectively troubleshoot issues. Collaborate with diverse stakeholders, negotiating solutions that balance customer needs with business objectives.

Candidates should possess at least 10 years of programming experience in C#, Java, C++, or other object-oriented languages, complemented by 4+ years in a people management or technical lead role. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related IT technical discipline is required, or 14+ years of experience in software product development and delivery.

Preferred qualifications include experience in building and designing platform services, a proven ability to form, mentor, and grow strong engineering teams, and demonstrated openness to feedback and collaboration with diverse groups. We seek individuals with independence, a bias for action, and comfort with ambiguity. Excellent organizational, prioritization, and communication skills are essential. Experience with cloud platforms like Azure, AWS, or GCP, and familiarity with search products such as Elasticsearch, Open Search, Lucene, or Solr are highly advantageous. Prior experience in defining roadmaps, strategy, and go-to-market plans for cloud services, along with SQL dialects, PowerShell, or automation expertise, is also beneficial. A background in advanced search domains like analytics and monitoring, or experience running services on Linux, is a plus.