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Software Leadership Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Experience leading large software planning efforts. Preferred Additional Skills: * Active Secret Clearance. * Experience with Linux OS configuration, including kernel modifications, drivers, and ...

Lead, Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Experience leading large software planning efforts. Preferred Additional Skills: * Active Secret Clearance. * Experience with Linux OS configuration, including kernel modifications, drivers, and ...

Lead, Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Experience leading large software planning efforts. Preferred Additional Skills: * Active Secret Clearance. * Experience with Linux OS configuration, including kernel modifications, drivers, and U ...

Support software development activities as directed by software leads. * Design software architectures for system components, including interfaces and models of aircraft components. * Prepare ...

XCAL Martial Arts Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$36K - $49K/yr

Familiarity with gym management software * Leadership or supervisory experience Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) * Membership growth and retention rates * Lead-to-member conversion * Class size and ...

XCAL Martial Arts Manager

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Familiarity with gym management software * Leadership or supervisory experience Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) * Membership growth and retention rates * Lead-to-member conversion * Class size and ...

Skilled in materials testing equipment and proficient in construction management software. * Leadership and Management: Unmatched leadership and management prowess. * Education: A B.S. in Civil ...

New

Construction Manager

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$93K - $135K/yr

Skilled in materials testing equipment and proficient in construction management software. * Leadership and Management: Unmatched leadership and management prowess. * Education: A B.S. in Civil ...

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Software Leadership information

What is software leadership?

Software leadership refers to the practice of guiding and managing teams involved in the development, deployment, and maintenance of software projects. Software leaders, such as engineering managers or technical leads, are responsible for aligning team efforts with business goals, fostering collaboration, and supporting the professional growth of their team members. They also ensure that software projects are delivered on time, meet quality standards, and leverage best practices in technology. Strong software leadership is crucial for building high-performing teams and successful software products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in software leadership?

To thrive in Software Leadership, you need a strong background in software development, project management, and team leadership, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with agile methodologies, version control systems (like Git), and project management tools (such as Jira or Trello) is typically required. Outstanding communication, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor and motivate teams are key soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering high-quality software, fostering innovation, and ensuring team productivity within fast-paced tech environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in software leadership roles, and how can they effectively address them?

Software leaders often encounter challenges such as balancing technical decision-making with people management, aligning team goals with organizational objectives, and managing distributed or cross-functional teams. To address these challenges, successful leaders focus on clear communication, foster a collaborative culture, and invest in ongoing professional development for both themselves and their teams. Regular feedback sessions, prioritizing mentorship, and staying up-to-date with industry best practices can help leaders navigate these complexities effectively.

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

AspectSoftware LeadershipSoftware Engineering Manager
Primary FocusStrategic vision, team guidance, and organizational goalsProject delivery, team management, and technical oversight
Required CredentialsExtensive technical experience, leadership skills, often advanced degreesTechnical background, management experience, often certifications like PMP or Scrum
Work EnvironmentExecutive meetings, strategic planning, cross-team collaborationTeam supervision, project planning, code reviews
Industry UsageUsed in organizations emphasizing strategic tech directionCommon in tech companies managing development teams

Software Leadership focuses on setting strategic direction and guiding multiple teams, while Software Engineering Managers handle day-to-day project management and team oversight. Both roles require technical expertise, but Software Leadership emphasizes vision and organizational impact, whereas Engineering Managers focus on project execution and team performance.

How to become a team leader in software?

To become a software team leader, develop strong technical skills, gain experience in software development, and demonstrate leadership qualities such as communication and problem-solving. Earning relevant certifications or training in project management can also enhance your qualifications. Progression often involves taking on mentorship roles and managing small projects before leading larger teams.

What job categories do people searching Software Leadership jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Leadership jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Software Leadership jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Software Leadership job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Leadership job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Lead, Software Engineer

L3HHCM20

Herndon, VA

$135K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title: : Lead, Software Engineer 

Job Code : 42068

Job Location: Herndon, VA (on-site)

Schedule: 9/80 Regular (Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off)

In a fast moving and increasingly complex world, L3Harris is anticipating and rapidly responding to challenges with agile technology - creating a safer and more secure future.  We develop advanced sonar systems and support software that enables system control, data acquisition, and analysis. This is a critical role supporting our maritime sector as a software lead.  Work includes software requirements development, software test and integration, and both applicationlevel and embedded C/C++ development, including Linuxbased GUI and system control work.

In addition to technical contributions, this position conducts the daytoday software lead activities by providing technical guidance, assigning tasks, reviewing and approving formal documentation, and estimating labor, tools, and other resources to meet budget and schedule commitments. This person may also perform Control Account Management (CAM) duties.

Essential Functions:

  • Contribute to software architecture specification and documentation
  • Structure work to enable clear progress assessment
  • Track software team performance metrics against critical program milestones and KPIs
  • Provide independent validation and verification of design concepts and implementation approaches.
  • Review and oversee design activities for compliance with customer requirements, company standards, software quality, and safety.
  • Design and implement software using C/C++
  • Prepare design review materials in support of SRR, PDR, CDR, and other technical audits.
  • Participate in flight safety certification activities.
  • Estimate and track financial progress as a CAM.
  • Foster and maintain positive relationships with customers, suppliers, colleagues, industry groups, and government agencies.
  • Support software development through all lifecycle phases.
  • Travel about 10%.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US Security Clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
  • 2+ years in a software leadership or project management role.
  • At least 5 years of experience with software design and development using C/C++ programming languages.
  • Experience creating and presenting software proposals including developing and reviewing cost estimates and proposal packages.
  • Experience tracking earned value.
  • Experience leading large software planning efforts.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Active Secret Clearance.
  • Experience with Linux OS configuration, including kernel modifications, drivers, and UBoot.
  • Familiarity with multiple programming languages such as C/C++, Python, and Java.
  • Ability to interpret and clearly communicate engineering plans and specifications, with solid knowledge of engineering theory and design criteria.
  • Excellent general computer skills and ability to quickly learn new hardware and software applications.
  • Experience using and configuring networking equipment.
  • Experience developing software for real-time embedded operating systems.
  • Experience with DO-178C software flight safety certification.
  • Experience building board support packages and drivers in Linux.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, and the Greater D.C, Denver, or NYC areas is $135,000 MIN - $250,500 MAX. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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