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Software Development Manager Jobs in Ottawa, ON (NOW HIRING)

Experience: 8+ years of software development experience applying modern engineering practices * Experience: 2+ years of experience managing direct reports in an engineering environment * Delivery of ...

We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Senior Software Development Manager to drive the development and delivery of cutting-edge optical software on the Reconfigurable Line System (RLS ...

... software or internal engineering tools. * Strong Python development skills, including data processing and text analysis. API integrations and automation, writing maintainable code (tests, packaging ...

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Software Development Manager information

See Ottawa, ON salary details

$61.4K

$125.2K

$166.2K

How much do software development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for software development manager in Ottawa, ON is $125,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,074.00 and $142,416.00 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, and why are they important?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Development jobs in Ottawa, ON? The most popular types of Software Development jobs in Ottawa, ON are:
What are popular job titles related to Software Development Manager jobs in Ottawa, ON? For Software Development Manager jobs in Ottawa, ON, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Development Manager jobs in Ottawa, ON look for? The top searched job categories for Software Development Manager jobs in Ottawa, ON are:
What cities near Ottawa, ON are hiring for Software Development Manager jobs? Cities near Ottawa, ON with the most Software Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Development Manager job openings in Ottawa, ON as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,160 per year, or $60.2 per hour.
Senior Software Development Manager

Senior Software Development Manager

Ciena

Ottawa, ON

CA$140K - CA$225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Ciena is advancing network automation through AI-powered applications that enhance network management and optimization. This role contributes to delivering intelligent, scalable software solutions that improve performance and operational efficiency. The position also shapes engineering practices that support AI-driven innovation and transformation.

How you will make an impact:

  • Lead development teams in delivering AI-enabled applications for network management and optimization
  • Mentor and develop engineering talent to build a collaborative and high-performing team environment
  • Drive planning and execution of features to meet delivery timelines and quality expectations
  • Champion adoption and scaling of AI technologies to improve development efficiency and product innovation
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product management, data science, UX, and platform engineering
  • Implement engineering best practices including modular design, performance optimization, and automated testing

The must haves:

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent
  • Experience: 8+ years of software development experience applying modern engineering practices
  • Experience: 2+ years of experience managing direct reports in an engineering environment
  • Delivery of complex software solutions within Agile development frameworks
  • Leadership and mentoring of engineering teams supporting delivery outcomes
  • Communication and collaboration across distributed teams and cross-functional stakeholders
  • Ability to operate effectively in evolving and fast-paced environments

Nice to haves:

  • Experience applying AI/ML technologies in production systems
  • Experience leading AI transformation initiatives within engineering teams
  • Experience with network management systems, software-defined networking (SDN), or network automation platforms
  • Experience utilizing cloud-native platforms, microservices architectures, and Kubernetes
  • Background in data-driven decision making and analytics

#LI-BS1

Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is C$140,900 - C$225,100.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is anEqual Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.