Microsoft’s salary guidelines, which were leaked earlier this year, are used by hiring managers to determine compensation packages for new employees. While it’s not entirely clear how broadly these guidelines apply, they offer insight into how Microsoft approaches compensation for different roles and levels within the company.
Microsoft’s compensation packages can vary significantly depending on the field and location. For example, employees in high-cost-of-living areas like New York and San Francisco receive larger paychecks to offset the expenses associated with those areas.
According to the leaked pay guidelines, the highest rank at Microsoft appears to be Level 70, with a base pay range of $231,700 to $361,500. Hiring bonuses for this level can range from $310,000 to $1.2 million. Microsoft uses these levels to define an employee’s rank within the organization, with higher levels indicating more senior positions. A Level 68 employee is considered a partner, while Level 63 and Level 65 employees are categorized as senior and principal employees, respectively.
At the lowest end of the pay scale, employees at Level 1 receive a base salary of $42,500. These entry-level employees are not eligible for hiring bonuses or stock awards.
It’s important to note that not all roles within Microsoft go up to Level 70. Some fields, such as distinguished engineers, can have high-ranking employees with levels that go beyond Level 70.
These leaked salary guidelines shed light on how Microsoft structures compensation for its employees, with a focus on tailoring packages to different roles, levels, and locations.
