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Software Development Project Manager Jobs in California

Outform Inc

Development Project Manager

Union City, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Development Project Manager (DPM) leads the development lifecycle of permanent display programs from initial concept through prototyping, estimating, and manufacturing readiness. This ...

Onigilly Inc

Development Project Manager

San Mateo, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

As our Development Project Manager, you'll be at the forefront of this exciting journey, guiding our food services projects to success. You'll oversee every detail, ensuring our onigiri reaches more ...

Outform Group

Development Project Manager

Union City, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Development Project Manager (DPM) leads the development lifecycle of permanent display programs from initial concept through prototyping, estimating, and manufacturing readiness. This ...

Onigilly Inc

Development Project Manager

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

As our Development Project Manager, you'll be at the forefront of this exciting journey, guiding our food services projects to success. You'll oversee every detail, ensuring our onigiri reaches more ...

GEGI LLC

GEGI is a software development company focusing on creating a reliable, flexible, and affordable ... We are looking to fill the role of an experienced Software Development Project Manager to work on ...

Stantec

Community Development - Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

Our established Community Development group is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support ... Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant design software (AutoCAD Civil3D, locally ...

Stantec

Community Development - Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

Our established Community Development group is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support ... Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant design software (AutoCAD Civil3D, locally ...

Sakura Finetek

Software Project Manager

Torrance, CA

General Position Summary The Software Project Manager will assist the software development projects by working directly with the Software Engineering team to organize the development tasks and plan ...

Redolent, Inc

Project Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Manage Online Software Development project activities for multiple projects across all project phases, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control and closure.? Work ...

Redolent, Inc

Project Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Manage Online Software Development project activities for multiple projects across all project phases, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control and closure. * Work ...

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All JobsSoftware Development Project Manager JobsSoftware Development Project Manager Jobs in California

Software Development Project Manager information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$99.9K

$143.1K

How much do software development project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for software development project manager in California is $99,891.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Software Development Project Manager collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

A Software Development Project Manager plays a central role in coordinating efforts between developers, quality assurance, UX/UI designers, and business stakeholders. They facilitate regular meetings such as sprint planning and daily stand-ups to ensure everyone is aligned on goals and deadlines. Additionally, they help resolve roadblocks, manage expectations, and keep communication channels open to foster collaboration and transparency across all involved teams. This cross-functional collaboration is essential for delivering projects on time and meeting client or end-user requirements.

What does a project manager do in software development?

A software development project manager oversees planning, execution, and delivery of software projects by coordinating teams, managing timelines, budgets, and resources, and ensuring project goals are met. They use tools like Agile or Scrum methodologies and often hold certifications such as PMP or Scrum Master to facilitate effective project management.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

Software Development Project Managers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, certifications like PMP, and working in high-demand industries or regions. Salary levels depend on factors such as location, company size, and project complexity.

Can a software developer become a project manager?

A software developer can become a project manager by gaining skills in leadership, communication, and project planning, often through experience or certifications like PMP or Scrum Master. Transitioning typically involves understanding project management methodologies and taking on responsibilities that include coordinating teams and managing timelines.

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

AspectSoftware Development Project ManagerSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related, PMP or Agile certificationsBachelor's or higher in CS or related field
Work EnvironmentProject teams, client meetings, planning sessionsCoding, debugging, designing software
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, software firms, IT departmentsTech companies, startups, software development firms

The main difference is that a Software Development Project Manager oversees project planning, coordination, and delivery, focusing on managing teams and timelines. In contrast, a Software Engineer primarily writes, tests, and maintains software code. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within software development projects.

What does a Software Development Project Manager do?

A Software Development Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects. They coordinate teams of developers, testers, and other stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to requirements. Their responsibilities include setting project timelines, managing resources, mitigating risks, and communicating progress to clients and upper management. They play a key role in bridging the gap between technical teams and business objectives to deliver successful software solutions.

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

To thrive as a Software Development Project Manager, you need strong project management skills, a solid understanding of the software development lifecycle, and experience with agile or other methodologies, typically supported by a relevant degree and certifications like PMP or Scrum Master. Familiarity with project management tools such as Jira, Trello, or Microsoft Project is essential, along with knowledge of version control systems like Git. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams, resolve conflicts, and align stakeholders. These skills are crucial to delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards in a dynamic tech environment.

Is being a TPM stressful?

Being a Software Development Project Manager (TPM) can be stressful due to managing project deadlines, coordinating teams, and handling stakeholder expectations. The role often requires strong organizational skills, problem-solving, and the ability to adapt to changing priorities, which can contribute to work pressure. However, stress levels vary depending on the organization, project complexity, and individual resilience.
What are popular job titles related to Software Development Project Manager jobs in California? For Software Development Project Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Software Development Project Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Software Development Project Manager job openings:
Software Development Project Manager jobs near you

Development Project Manager

Outform Group, Inc.

Union City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

$80,000 to $120,000

JOB SUMMARY

The Development Project Manager (DPM) leads the development lifecycle of permanent display programs from initial concept through prototyping, estimating, and manufacturing readiness. This role bridges Sales, Engineering, Vendors, and Manufacturing to deliver high‑quality, cost‑effective solutions. The DPM is expected to bring strong mechanical aptitude, hands‑on problem‑solving ability, and a maker mindset to ensure prototypes, materials, and manufacturing strategies meet functional, aesthetic, and cost targets.

SCOPE & ACCOUNTABILITY

· Full ownership of development for assigned display programs, driving concept-to-production execution with an emphasis on manufacturability, feasibility, and build quality.

· Applies strong mechanical intuition and hands-on skills to evaluate physical builds, resolve issues, and guide engineering direction.

· Makes strategic decisions around materials, fabrication methods, vendors, and cost drivers to support profitability and mitigate risks.

· Ensures timely, accurate documentation including specifications, BOMs, ERP entries, prototype evaluations, and vendor communications.

· Acts as a technical problem-solver, performing root‑cause analysis and ensuring underlying issues—not symptoms—are addressed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

· Partner with Sales and Account Management to define project scope, budgets, fabrication methodology, and timelines.

· Develop precise project specifications translating sales requirements into engineering direction.

· Provide manufacturing and material guidance to Engineering, informed by practical fabrication limitations and spatial awareness.

· Participate directly in mockups and prototypes, applying hands‑on skills to evaluate functionality, assembly, fit, and manufacturability.

· Lead cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on cost, quality, engineering direction, and readiness for mass production.

· Conduct root‑cause analysis on mechanical or manufacturing challenges and drive corrective action.

· Manage vendor communications, including negotiating pricing, lead times, and production strategies.

· Oversee first article inspections with a maker‑oriented, detail‑driven approach to ensure specifications are met.

· Maintain accurate ERP documentation, including BOM modifications and revisions.

· Balance speed, cost, quality, and technical feasibility across multiple simultaneous projects.

KEY INTERFACES (NON-REPORTING)

· Account Management

· Engineering

· Purchasing / Procurement

· Estimating

· Manufacturing / Production

· Domestic & Global Vendors (including Asia)

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Success in this role will be measured against metrics including but not limited to:

· On‑time milestone completion rate – Development milestones delivered according to schedule.

· Prototype turnaround time – Average time required to produce and evaluate prototypes or mockups.

· Mechanical issue resolution time – Speed and effectiveness in diagnosing and resolving development or mechanical challenges.

· First‑pass prototype success rate – Ensuring prototypes are meeting functional, aesthetic, and manufacturing criteria without rework.

· Budget vs. target on development builds – Variance between estimated and actual development costs.

QUALIFICATIONS

· 5–10 years of project management experience within a manufacturing or product development environment.

· Strong mechanical and hands‑on problem‑solving skills; ability to understand assemblies and diagnose issues quickly.

· Experience building prototypes, mockups, or test models; strong manual dexterity and spatial awareness.

· Proven ability to independently manage complex, large‑scale development programs.

· Strong understanding of fabrication methods and manufacturing processes for materials such as acrylic, metal, and wood.

· Ability to read engineering drawings and translate into actionable build direction.

· Strong curiosity and technical depth; proven root‑cause problem-solving capabilities.

· Experience working with international suppliers, including long lead‑time partners in Asia (preferred).

· Proficiency in MS Office; advanced Excel skills a plus.

· Experience with MS Dynamics 365 or similar ERP systems (preferred).

· Strong communication, organization, and cross-functional alignment skills.

LEADERSHIP ATTRIBUTES & PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

· Strong mechanical intuition: Understands how things fit together and can diagnose issues quickly.

· Prototype‑driven, maker mindset: Enjoys hands‑on work, testing ideas, and iterating with real materials.

· Technical curiosity: Naturally explores how things work and proactively resolves core problems, not symptoms.

· Ownership mentality: Drives programs from concept through mass production with discipline and accountability.

· Fabrication awareness: Understands real-world constraints and has strong spatial and hand skills.

· Strategic and innovative thinker with strong autonomy.

· Clear and concise communicator who can distill technical information for non-technical audiences.

· Highly organized, proactive, and action-oriented with strong follow‑through.

· Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and drive decision-making.

· Thoughtful listener who values collaboration and continuous learning.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Working conditions include office and plant environments. Duties require walking, sitting, standing, bending, twisting, reaching, and manual handling of materials. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Extended computer and phone use required. Travel up to 10% of the time is required and is an essential function of this position.

DISCLAIMER

The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification and may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of the Employer. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.