Principal Cloud Hardware Engineer, Storage System Development

Application deadline: Apr 19 2026

At Amazon Web Services we build the infrastructure that powers the world and were looking for a Principal Cloud Hardware Engineer to help define what comes next. This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of physics and planetary-scale systems leading the engineering of next-generation magnetic storage and the breakthrough technologies poised to replace it.

As a Principal Engineer within AWS Hardware Engineering you will sit at the center of one of the most consequential technology challenges of our time: designing the storage backbone that enables artificial intelligence to operate at scale supports the worlds most demanding workloads and stores humanitys data. You wont just optimize existing systems youll reshape an entire industry.

Key job responsibilities

Lead end-to-end engineering efforts on next-generation magnetic storage technologies from the physics of the storage medium to the architecture of the worlds largest storage systems

Define the technical vision and roadmap for storage hardware innovation across AWSs global infrastructure

Drive breakthrough research and development on emerging storage technologies positioned to succeed current magnetic storage paradigms

Partner with cross-functional teams spanning hardware software systems architecture and supply chain to bring next-generation storage solutions from concept to hyperscale deployment

Establish engineering standards best practices and architectural patterns that influence storage design across AWS

Mentor and develop senior engineers elevating technical excellence across the organization

Engage with external research institutions vendors and industry partners to stay at the forefront of storage innovation

Represent AWS in industry forums and contribute to the broader storage engineering community


About the team
Denver is home to a growing AWS engineering hub where world-class hardware engineers tackle some of the most complex infrastructure challenges on the planet. Youll join a team that operates with the urgency of a startup and the resources of the worlds leading cloud provider with direct impact on the systems that power global commerce scientific discovery and the AI revolution.

Previous experience in hardware engineering with deep expertise in storage technologies (magnetic solid-state or emerging media)

Demonstrated mastery of storage physics media engineering and system-level architecture

Proven track record of leading large-scale complex hardware programs from research through production

Experience designing and delivering hardware systems at hyperscale or in high-reliability environments

Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence technical direction at the executive level


PhD or MS in Electrical Engineering Materials Science Physics Computer Engineering or a related field

Experience with next-generation storage technologies (e.g. HAMR MAMR DNA storage optical or other emerging media)

Background in data center infrastructure cloud hardware or large-scale distributed storage systems

Prior experience in a Principal Engineer or equivalent technical leadership role at a hyperscaler storage OEM or advanced research organization

Publications patents or recognized contributions to the storage engineering field

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status disability or other legally protected status.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process including support for the interview or onboarding process please visit for more information. If the country/region youre applying in isnt listed please contact your Recruiting Partner.

The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience qualifications and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical dental vision prescription Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans EAP Mental Health Support Medical Advice Line Flexible Spending Accounts Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage) 401(k) matching paid time off and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at CO Denver - 189400.00 - 256200.00 USD annually