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Software Development Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Senior Software Engineer I

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Summary The Senior Software Engineer I will report directly to the School Apps Development Manager and will be responsible for the development and delivery of features for NHA's proprietary student ...

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Software Development Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$69.3K

$123.9K

$155.6K

How much do software development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for software development manager in Michigan is $123,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,600.00 and $142,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a software development manager typically balance technical leadership with people management responsibilities?

As a Software Development Manager, you’ll find that balancing hands-on technical leadership with people management is a central part of the role. You’ll spend part of your time guiding architectural decisions and overseeing code quality, while also focusing on coaching, mentoring, and supporting your team’s professional growth. Effective delegation, setting clear priorities, and maintaining open communication with both developers and stakeholders are key to managing these dual responsibilities. Many managers also work closely with product managers, QA, and other departments to ensure alignment across projects.

What does a software development manager do?

As a software development manager, your primary responsibilities are to oversee software development teams and to act as a liaison between your teams and senior management. You hire and train new staff, manage and evaluate existing developers, provide guidance on the design and implementation of new software applications, and ensure that projects stay on schedule and within budget. You collaborate with upper-level management and your developers to make sure that new and existing software applications meet business objectives.

What does a software development manager do?

A Software Development Manager oversees teams of software engineers to ensure successful planning, development, and delivery of software projects. They coordinate project timelines, allocate resources, and facilitate communication between team members and stakeholders. Additionally, they mentor developers, set technical standards, and help align software initiatives with business objectives. Their role balances technical expertise with leadership and project management responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software development manager?

To thrive as a Software Development Manager, you need a solid background in software engineering, leadership experience, and usually a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools (like Jira or Trello), version control systems (such as Git), and sometimes certifications like PMP or Scrum Master are highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to motivate and mentor teams are critical soft skills. These competencies ensure successful project delivery, foster team development, and align technical efforts with business goals.

What is the difference between Software Development Manager vs Software Engineer?

AspectSoftware Development ManagerSoftware Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees development teams, manages projects, sets strategic goalsDesigns, codes, tests software applications
Required SkillsLeadership, project management, technical expertiseProgramming, problem-solving, technical skills
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in CS or related field, often with experience in managementBachelor's or higher in CS or related field
Work EnvironmentTeam management, collaboration with stakeholdersIndividual or team coding tasks, development environments

The main difference between a Software Development Manager and a Software Engineer lies in their focus and responsibilities. Managers oversee teams and projects, while engineers focus on designing and coding software. Both roles require technical skills, but managers also need leadership and project management abilities.

More about Software Development Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Development jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Software Development jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Software Development Manager jobs in Michigan? For Software Development Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Development Manager jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Software Development Manager jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Software Development Manager jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Software Development Manager job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Software Development Manager jobs in MI? For Software Development Manager jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Software Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Development Manager job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,855 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Software Development Manager - Software Test and QA

Gentex Corporation

Zeeland, MI • On-site

$113K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Gentex rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Job Summary:
Gentex Corporation is a global technology company headquartered in Zeeland, Michigan, known for its commitment to creating a positive workplace environment. The Software Development Manager will lead the software development and implementation for all Gentex production programs while developing the assigned team to execute the software development strategy.
Responsibilities:
• Manage the development and execution of Software development activities across all Gentex production products.
• Set the vision for the assigned team in accordance with the overall Software Development functional area and corporate objectives.
• Perform duties related to managing a team of direct reports including recruiting, training, retaining, and managing performance.
• Oversee and contribute to the development of optimized software architecture and/or design solutions.
• Oversee the implementation of software solutions.
• Collaborate with various cross-functional teams throughout engineering to ensure project success.
• Manage the performance of contract software development engineers.
• Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, related discipline, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and training.
• 8+ years of technical experience in all phases of software development lifecycle.
• 5+ years of relevant leadership experience.
Preferred:
• Extensive experience in SW verification and validation methods and technologies
• Passion for debugging and root cause investigations
• Experience with Cybersecurity standards: UNECE 155, 156, ISO 21434.
• Knowledge of Functional Safety implementation following ISO 26262.
• Experience working in and developing processes that comply with Automotive SPICE.
• Familiarity with Aerospace software standards such as DO-178B.
Company:
Gentex is a global, high technology electronics company that is managed by engineers and others who understand the freedom and discipline that's required to run an entrepreneurial company. Founded in 1974, the company is headquartered in Zeeland, USA, with a team of 5001-10000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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