Microsoft Staff-Level Penetration Tester Interview Preparation Guide
Penetration Tester
Microsoft
Staff
8 rounds
Updated 2/22/2026
Microsoft's interview process for Staff-level Penetration Testers typically consists of an initial recruiter screen, followed by 2-3 technical phone interviews, and 4-5 onsite rounds spanning 4-8 weeks. The process emphasizes hands-on technical expertise, strategic security thinking, mentorship capability, and alignment with Microsoft security principles. Expect scenario-based assessments, complex vulnerability analysis, engagement planning, and behavioral evaluation reflecting Microsoft's commitment to secure development and enterprise security.
Interview Rounds
1
Recruiter Screening
30 min4 focus topicsculture fit
2
Technical Phone Screen 1: Penetration Testing Fundamentals & Methodology
60 min5 focus topicstechnical
3
Technical Phone Screen 2: Advanced Exploitation, Post-Exploitation & Complex Scenarios
60 min5 focus topicstechnical
4
Onsite Round 1: Advanced Technical Assessment & Custom Exploit Development
90 min4 focus topicstechnical
5
Onsite Round 2: Security Architecture, Engagement Strategy & Risk Communication
75 min4 focus topicscase study
6
Onsite Round 3: Red Team Operations, Complex Scenarios & Threat Modeling
75 min4 focus topicscase study
7
Onsite Round 4: Leadership, Mentorship & Cross-Functional Influence
60 min4 focus topicsbehavioral
8
Onsite Round 5: Culture Fit & Microsoft Values Alignment
45 min4 focus topicsculture fit