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Lead Software Development Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Neodym Technologies

IT Software Engineer 4

Chicago, IL · On-site

Job Title: IT Software Engineer 4 (Senior SDET) Requisition ID: Request #106098-1 Job Overview Caterpillar is seeking an experienced IT Software Engineer 5 (Lead SDET) to join the VL Autonomy Program ...

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iSpot

Lead Software Development Engineer

Bellevue, WA · Hybrid

$148K - $191K/yr

As a fullstack engineer with a strong affinity for frontend development, you'll shape user ... Lead research into external technologies (frontend and fullstack) and propose adoption strategies.

iSpot

Lead Software Development Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$148K - $191K/yr

As a full‑stack engineer with a strong affinity for front‑end development, you'll shape user ... Lead research into external technologies (front‑end and full‑stack) and propose adoption ...

Apolis

Lead SDET

Boston, MA · On-site

Apolis is seeking a Lead Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to architect and scale their robotics software testing organization. The role involves defining test strategies, building test ...

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How much do lead software development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead software development engineer in the United States is $145,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,000.00 and $168,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lead Software Development Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of software engineering principles, programming languages, and hands-on experience with designing scalable systems, typically supported by a computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with technical tools such as version control systems (e.g., Git), cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), and agile project management frameworks is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively guide teams and manage project priorities. These skills ensure successful project delivery, high-quality software solutions, and cohesive teamwork in dynamic tech environments.

How does a Lead Software Development Engineer typically balance hands-on coding with team leadership responsibilities?

As a Lead Software Development Engineer, you can expect to split your time between coding and overseeing the technical direction of your team. While you’ll still participate in designing and developing key features, a significant part of your role involves mentoring team members, conducting code reviews, and ensuring adherence to best practices. You’ll also collaborate closely with product managers and stakeholders to align technical solutions with business goals. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong organizational skills and the ability to delegate tasks effectively, ensuring both high-quality code and team growth.

What is a Lead Software Development Engineer?

A Lead Software Development Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for guiding a team of software developers in designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. They provide technical leadership, oversee project progress, and ensure that best practices and high coding standards are followed. In addition to hands-on coding, they often collaborate with other departments, mentor junior engineers, and help define the technical vision for projects. Their role is crucial in delivering high-quality software solutions on time and within scope.
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Lead Software Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Software Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,890 per year, or $70.1 per hour.

Lead Software Development Engineer

Audible, Inc. - B13

Newark, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

At Audible, we believe stories have the power to transform lives. It's why we work with some of the world's leading creators to produce and share audio storytelling with our millions of global listeners. We are dreamers and inventors who come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences to empower and inspire each other. Imagine your future with us. ABOUT THIS ROLE As a Lead Software Engineer, it's up to you to design, architect, and implement content discovery solutions that drive transformative technological advancements. The ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with strategic thinking, capable of translating complex business challenges into scalable, intelligent systems. ABOUT THE TEAM Our Kaleidoscope Engineering team is at the forefront of transformative technological innovation, dedicated to solving complex challenges through intelligent system design. We are a dynamic, collaborative group of technologists who push the boundaries of adaptive intelligence and dynamic layout applications. Our mission is to develop the next generation of customer-centric solutions to help Audible customers find their next listen effortless. As a Lead Software Engineer, you will... - Design and develop novel discovery architecture systems - Development end-to-end solutions addressing complex technical and business challenges - Architect systems with a focus on performance, scalability, and efficiency - Conduct advanced research and prototype innovative adaptive layout and intelligence approaches - Collaborate cross-functionally to align technical solutions with strategic objectives - Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical knowledge sharing - Lead technical design reviews and provide architectural guidance ABOUT AUDIBLE Audible is the leading producer and provider of audio storytelling. We spark listeners' imaginations, offering immersive, cinematic experiences full of inspiration and insight to enrich our customers daily lives. We are a global company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are dreamers and inventors who are passionate about the positive impact Audible can make for our customers and our neighbors. This spirit courses throughout Audible, supporting a culture of creativity and inclusion built on our People Principles and our mission to build more equitable communities in the cities we call home.

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