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Director Software Development Jobs in California

Adobe

Dir, Software Development

San Jose, CA · On-site

The Challenge Adobe Developer Platforms has the mission to help Developers "write better software ... managers / Director-level scope) , with demonstrated ability to scale organizations without ...

Adobe, Inc.

Dir, Software Development

San Jose, CA · On-site

The Challenge Adobe Developer Platforms has the mission to help Developers "write better software ... managers / Director-level scope) , with demonstrated ability to scale organizations without ...

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Director Software Development information

See California salary details

$103.1K

$175.6K

$237.8K

How much do director software development jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for director software development in California is $175,648.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $151,000.00 and $203,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Software Development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Software Development, you need extensive experience in software engineering, leadership, project management, and a relevant technical degree. Familiarity with development frameworks, cloud platforms, Agile methodologies, and certifications like PMP or Scrum Master are highly valuable. Strong communication, strategic thinking, and team-building skills help drive cross-functional alignment and motivate high-performing teams. These skills are essential for delivering successful software products, managing complex projects, and fostering innovation within the organization.

How does a Director of Software Development typically balance technical leadership with people management responsibilities?

As a Director of Software Development, you are expected to provide both technical direction and effective team leadership. This often means splitting your time between high-level architecture decisions, code reviews, and staying updated on emerging technologies, while also focusing on coaching managers, developing talent, and fostering a collaborative team environment. Balancing these areas requires strong delegation skills, setting clear goals and expectations, and maintaining open communication channels. Many directors find success by empowering technical leads to own day-to-day technical decisions, allowing them to focus on strategic planning, cross-functional alignment, and organizational growth.

What does a Director of Software Development do?

A Director of Software Development leads and manages software engineering teams to deliver high-quality software products and solutions. They are responsible for setting technical direction, establishing development processes, and aligning projects with business goals. This role involves overseeing project timelines, mentoring engineering managers, collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders, and ensuring teams have the resources needed for success. The Director also plays a key role in recruiting talent, evaluating team performance, and implementing best practices to drive innovation and efficiency.

What is the difference between Director Software Development vs Software Engineering Manager?

AspectDirector Software DevelopmentSoftware Engineering Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple teams, strategic planning, and long-term goalsManages day-to-day team operations, project delivery, and technical guidance
FocusHigh-level leadership, cross-team coordination, and business alignmentTeam management, technical mentorship, and project execution
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in CS or related, extensive experience, leadership skillsBachelor’s or Master’s in CS or related, strong technical background, leadership experience

The main difference is that the Director Software Development focuses on strategic leadership and overseeing multiple teams, while the Software Engineering Manager concentrates on managing individual teams and project execution. Both roles require technical expertise and leadership skills, but the director role involves broader organizational responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Director Software Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Director Software Development job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Director Software Development jobs in CA? For Director Software Development jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Director Software Development jobs near you
Director Software Development

Director Software Development

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$215.60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 137 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING
At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next-generation computing experiences-from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you'll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world's most important challenges-striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond. Together, we advance your career.
THE ROLE:
AMD is looking for a talented leader to help develop innovative solutions and software features, bring up new products, and improve the quality of our existing software.
THE PERSON:
We seek a hands-on leader responsible for a large functional area with the Software Development team. They will lead the team, planning software development projects, creating documentation, and delivering software products for internal and external customers. Requires experience with cross-team management. This role also requires that the individual can lead and interact and work with their counterparts globally to ensure effective delivery of the projects: strong Interpersonal, verbal, and written skills and the ability to multitask.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Participate and play a critical role in planning project deliverables
  • Own and drive software design, development, verification, and release the product to customers
  • Performing individual goal planning and evaluation per AMD policies
  • Maintaining the health and morale of the team
  • Develop and grow the engineering skills of the team
  • Drive critical issues and interface with cross-functional teams
  • Provide periodic management/executive updates
  • Lead brainstorming sessions

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience in a hands-on software engineering, development, and/or architectural leadership role
  • Solid knowledge of software fundamentals
  • Strong C/C++ programming skills and operating system knowledge
  • Embedded Programming knowledge and skills are desired
  • Consistent record in engineering execution, delivering software on time with high quality, and achieving premium high-performance software solutions
  • Proven track record of planning and delivering complex system software products
  • Experience leading multiple projects with competing priorities
  • Strong project management skills and experience with project management techniques such as scheduling, budgeting, and risk management
  • Disciplined approach to problem solving and ability to make business decisions in a technical environment

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS:
Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related discipline preferred
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.
AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants' needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.
AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD's "Responsible AI Policy" is available here.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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