1

Software Engineering Manager Jobs in Riverside, CA

The Manager, Software Engineering is responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects, requiring a blend of technical knowledge, managerial expertise, and interpersonal ...

The Manager, Software Engineering is responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects, requiring a blend of technical knowledge, managerial expertise, and interpersonal ...

The Manager, Software Engineering is responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects, requiring a blend of technical knowledge, managerial expertise, and interpersonal ...

The Manager, Software Engineering is responsible for the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects, requiring a blend of technical knowledge, managerial expertise, and interpersonal ...

Director, Software Engineering

Irvine, CA · On-site

$271K/yr

Manage team capacity, vendor relationships, and onshore/offshore resource models to ensure ... Experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in software engineering, B2B integration, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Engineering Manager information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$103.8K

$176.7K

$209.2K

How much do software engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineering manager in Riverside, CA is $176,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $180,500.00 and $180,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Software Engineering Managers when leading diverse development teams?

Software Engineering Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing technical leadership with people management, aligning team members with different backgrounds and skill sets, and ensuring effective communication across remote or cross-functional teams. Navigating these challenges involves fostering an inclusive environment, setting clear expectations, and adapting management styles to individual team members’ needs. Successful managers also prioritize regular check-ins and feedback to keep projects on track and support professional growth within the team.

What Does a Software Engineering Manager Do?

A software engineering manager oversees a team of people who are working on the development of new computer software or the enhancement of existing computer programs. Because this is a management job, your duties may include coordinating and planning with other departments within the company and with company executives. In addition to management skills, you need a firm understanding of the technical aspects of software engineering. Another aspect of this career involves understanding the market and competitor’s products so that your software can compete and meet market demands.

What is the difference between Software Engineering Manager vs Software Developer?

AspectSoftware Engineering ManagerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in CS or related field, often with leadership experienceBachelor's or higher in CS or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, collaborates with stakeholdersFocuses on coding, debugging, and implementing features
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across tech companies, startups, and large enterprisesCommon in all software development settings
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles, leadership responsibilitiesFocus on technical skills, coding tasks

The main difference between a Software Engineering Manager and a Software Developer lies in their roles and responsibilities. Managers oversee teams, coordinate projects, and handle strategic planning, while developers focus on coding and technical implementation. Both roles are essential in the software development lifecycle, but they serve different functions within an organization.

What does a Software Engineering Manager do?

A Software Engineering Manager oversees a team of software engineers, guiding the development of software projects from planning to implementation. They are responsible for managing the team's workflow, ensuring high-quality code, and meeting project deadlines. In addition to technical leadership, they also handle hiring, mentoring, and performance reviews. Their role bridges the gap between technical execution and business objectives, ensuring that software solutions align with strategic goals.

What does a software engineer manager do?

A software engineering manager oversees software development teams, coordinates project planning, sets technical goals, and ensures timely delivery of software products. They also handle team management, performance evaluations, and collaborate with stakeholders to align technical efforts with business objectives.

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

To thrive as a Software Engineering Manager, you need a solid background in software development, team leadership, and project management, often backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with development tools, agile methodologies, version control systems, and, in some cases, certifications like PMP or Scrum Master are valuable. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and mentoring skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for successfully guiding technical teams, delivering projects efficiently, and fostering a collaborative and innovative engineering culture.

How much do software engineer managers get paid?

Software engineering managers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $120,000 to $180,000, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often receive additional benefits such as bonuses, stock options, and health insurance, and may lead teams using project management tools and Agile methodologies.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Software engineering managers and senior software engineers in high-cost-of-living areas or with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually. Compensation depends on factors such as location, company size, industry, and individual expertise, with roles involving leadership, complex projects, or advanced technical skills often commanding higher salaries.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineering managers and highly experienced software engineers at large tech companies can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses, stock options, and other incentives. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and expertise in areas like cloud computing, system architecture, or specialized domains.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Software Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Software Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA? For Software Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Software Engineering Manager jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Software Engineering Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Engineering Manager job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $176,710 per year, or $85 per hour.
Flight Software Engineering Manager

Flight Software Engineering Manager

Terran Orbital Corporation

Irvine, CA

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Flight Software Engineering Manager  to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Director of Program Engineering, the Flight Software Engineering Manager will be involved in all aspects of a spacecraft's lifetime, with an in-depth vision to guide and mentor members of the team, in addition to their managerial responsibilities.  These include, but not limited to, scheduling and resource planning to support programs, proposals and other business activities, interfacing with other teams and business units to provide guidance and context to create processes and standards. 

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Tasking and oversight of Flight Software Engineers, who design and develop flight software applications
  • Attend program meetings and develop work breakdowns for the engineers
  • Function as a lead program software engineer when necessary
  • Represent engineers in bi-weekly Sprint planning
  • Contribute to Code Reviews as necessary
  • Managing direct reports from human resource perspective, providing technical mentorship, and conducting team meetings, performance reviews, interviews as necessary to meet the work demand and expectations for the team being managed.
  • Providing presentations, reports, summary, and status updates to upper management on a weekly basis
  • Other duties may be assigned as needed

Required Qualifications and Skills 

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Aerospace, or equivalent degree required
  • Minimum of 8 years of direct industry experience working on embedded software in Aerospace, Space, or a similar sector
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in managing engineering teams working on embedded software in Aerospace, Space, or a similar sector
  • Strong and effective leader who has proven history leading technical teams
  • Must have previous mentorship experience to train junior level engineers
  • Experience developing software in C/C++, deploying and testing on the target environment, and delivering product to the market
  • Ability to work independently and manage priorities in a multi-disciplinary and fast-paced environment
  • Exceptional critical thinking and decision-making skills
  • Strong communication and presentation skills to interface with executive members of the team, customers, and vendors
  • Experience in a production environment within the space or aerospace industry
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

  • MS or PhD in Computer Science or Engineering with an embedded focus
  • Experience developing on Linux
  • Familiarity with Zynq 7000 series and/or microprocessors
  • Familiarity with FPGA
  • Familiarity with HW testing equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers