Provide technical leadership across the full software lifecycle, ensuring alignment with mission requirements, performance constraints, and system integration needs * Oversee development of real-time ...
Provide technical leadership across the full software lifecycle, ensuring alignment with mission requirements, performance constraints, and system integration needs * Oversee development of real-time ...
... Software (FSW) development ... This role is ideal for an established leader who thrives in complex, mission-critical environments ...
... Software (FSW) development ... This role is ideal for an established leader who thrives in complex, mission-critical environments ...
Senior Software Architect - Integration (Bedford, MA)
Bedford, MA · On-site
$157K - $249K/yr
Architectural Leadership: * Own and evolve the end-to-end software architecture for assigned products or platforms, balancing short-term delivery with long-term technical vision. * Define ...
Senior Software Architect - Integration (Bedford, MA)
Bedford, MA · On-site
$157K - $249K/yr
Architectural Leadership: * Own and evolve the end-to-end software architecture for assigned products or platforms, balancing short-term delivery with long-term technical vision. * Define ...
#Embedded Software Engineer - Products and Integration
San Diego, CA · On-site
$139K - $183K/yr
The position will collaborate with program management and software leadership to define integration strategies, test automation, and continuous integration methodologies, while contributing to ...
#Embedded Software Engineer - Products and Integration
San Diego, CA · On-site
$139K - $183K/yr
The position will collaborate with program management and software leadership to define integration strategies, test automation, and continuous integration methodologies, while contributing to ...
Senior Embedded Software Engineer
Camarillo, CA · On-site
$119K - $160K/yr
Team Leadership: Act as the team lead for a small, cross-functional team of software engineers. Collaborate with other disciplines, including system and electrical engineers, to ensure seamless ...
Senior Embedded Software Engineer
Camarillo, CA · On-site
$119K - $160K/yr
Team Leadership: Act as the team lead for a small, cross-functional team of software engineers. Collaborate with other disciplines, including system and electrical engineers, to ensure seamless ...
THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned ... Reporting to the Director of Software, you will be responsible for driving the adoption ...
THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned ... Reporting to the Director of Software, you will be responsible for driving the adoption ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · On-site
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · On-site
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Engineering Manager - Critical Infrastructure
$150K - $200K/yr
Partner with software engineering leadership to ensure alignment between hardware design and software implementation, while maintaining clear ownership of hardware engineering standards and ...
Engineering Manager - Critical Infrastructure
$150K - $200K/yr
Partner with software engineering leadership to ensure alignment between hardware design and software implementation, while maintaining clear ownership of hardware engineering standards and ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Quality Engineer - level 2
Huntsville, AL · Hybrid
$79K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Assist with Software Quality reporting metrics when required. * Become fluent in the use of tools: Jira, Confluence, DOORS or others as ...
Software Engineering Manager, Calls Security
$188K - $325K/yr
Growing engineers into technical leaders who can own complex, cross-functional projects ... You have strong software engineering skills and can act as an arbiter for tough technical debates.
Software Engineering Manager, Calls Security
$188K - $325K/yr
Growing engineers into technical leaders who can own complex, cross-functional projects ... You have strong software engineering skills and can act as an arbiter for tough technical debates.
Software leadership and strategy: Define and own the flight and ground software architecture and development plan aligned to Oasis-1 mission ConOps, guidance, navigation, and control needs, and ...
Software leadership and strategy: Define and own the flight and ground software architecture and development plan aligned to Oasis-1 mission ConOps, guidance, navigation, and control needs, and ...
Software leadership and strategy : Define and own the flight and ground software architecture and development plan aligned to Oasis-1 mission ConOps, guidance, navigation, and control needs, and ...
Software leadership and strategy : Define and own the flight and ground software architecture and development plan aligned to Oasis-1 mission ConOps, guidance, navigation, and control needs, and ...
Software leadership and strategy : Define and own the flight and ground software architecture and development plan aligned to Oasis-1 mission ConOps, guidance, navigation, and control needs, and ...
Software leadership and strategy : Define and own the flight and ground software architecture and development plan aligned to Oasis-1 mission ConOps, guidance, navigation, and control needs, and ...
Software Quality Assurance Engineer - 17885*
Roy, UT · On-site
$72K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Understand process health, progress and stability metrics when required * Become fluent in the use of tools; Jira, Confluence, Jazz ...
Software Quality Assurance Engineer - 17885*
Roy, UT · On-site
$72K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Understand process health, progress and stability metrics when required * Become fluent in the use of tools; Jira, Confluence, Jazz ...
Proficiency in office software and insurance industry-specific software. * Leadership and team management abilities. * Attention to detail and organizational skills. * Must be bilingual
Quick apply
Proficiency in office software and insurance industry-specific software. * Leadership and team management abilities. * Attention to detail and organizational skills. * Must be bilingual
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Understand process health, progress and stability metrics when required * Become fluent in the use of tools; Jira, Confluence, Jazz ...
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Understand process health, progress and stability metrics when required * Become fluent in the use of tools; Jira, Confluence, Jazz ...
Software Quality Assurance Engineer - 17885*
$72K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Understand process health, progress and stability metrics when required * Become fluent in the use of tools; Jira, Confluence, Jazz ...
Software Quality Assurance Engineer - 17885*
$72K - $119K/yr
Offer suggestions for improvement to the software leadership. * Understand process health, progress and stability metrics when required * Become fluent in the use of tools; Jira, Confluence, Jazz ...
Software Leadership information
See salary details
$48K - $58.7K
1% of jobs
$58.7K - $69.5K
4% of jobs
$69.5K - $80.2K
9% of jobs
$90.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$80.2K - $90.9K
12% of jobs
$90.9K - $101.6K
15% of jobs
The median wage is $108.7K / yr.
$101.6K - $112.4K
14% of jobs
$112.4K - $123.1K
15% of jobs
$127.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$123.1K - $133.8K
13% of jobs
$133.8K - $144.5K
9% of jobs
$144.5K - $155.3K
5% of jobs
$155.3K - $166K
3% of jobs
$48K
$111.8K
$166K
How much do software leadership jobs pay per year?
What is software leadership?
What is the difference between Software Leadership vs Software Engineering Manager?
| Aspect | Software Leadership | Software Engineering Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Strategic vision, team guidance, and organizational goals | Project delivery, team management, and technical oversight |
| Required Credentials | Extensive technical experience, leadership skills, often advanced degrees | Technical background, management experience, often certifications like PMP or Scrum |
| Work Environment | Executive meetings, strategic planning, cross-team collaboration | Team supervision, project planning, code reviews |
| Industry Usage | Used in organizations emphasizing strategic tech direction | Common 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.
What are some common challenges faced by professionals in software leadership roles, and how can they effectively address them?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Software Leadership, and why are they important?

Leidos rating
8.4
Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
55th of 426 rated business services
Job description
At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is grounded in a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide how we work.
Your greatest work is ahead
Leidos Defense Persistent Surveillance Portfolio is seeking an experienced Electronic Warfare Software Lead to drive the technical direction and execution of a large, multi-phase U.S. Air Force EW and radar program. This role spans concurrent development, integration, test, production, and sustainment activities, with a strong emphasis on modern electronic warfare capabilities and real-time software systems.
With locations across the United States supporting defense, space, cyber, and commercial programs, the Leidos Defense Systems Sector provides responsive, cost-effective engineering, scientific, and IT solutions.
If this sounds like an environment where you can thrive, keep reading.
About Leidos Defense
Leidos Defense delivers a broad portfolio of systems, solutions, and services across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. Our capabilities include mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence operations support. We solve the world's toughest security challenges for missions that demand absolute reliability.
Primary Responsibilities
This position is based at Leidos' main campus in Huntsville, AL. The selected candidate will partner with executive leadership, program managers, chief engineers, and cross-functional teams to:
- Lead the software architecture, design, and development of advanced electronic warfare systems, including RF sensing, signal processing, and countermeasure capabilities
- Provide technical leadership across the full software lifecycle, ensuring alignment with mission requirements, performance constraints, and system integration needs
- Oversee development of real-time, high-performance software supporting EW and radar platforms, including embedded and distributed systems
- Guide the evolution and sustainment of EW software frameworks, ensuring scalability, modularity, and reuse across programs
- Mentor and grow a high-performing engineering team, fostering technical excellence and leadership development
- Collaborate with business development to shape EW-focused solutions, support proposals, and expand customer relationships
- Ensure adherence to software engineering best practices, including DevSecOps, automated testing, configuration management, and secure coding
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, with 4-8 years of relevant experience or Master's with 2-6 years.
- Experience with real-time systems, signal processing, and high-throughput data processing architectures
- Experience serving in a technical software leadership role
- Proficiency in C++ and object-oriented design, with experience in performance-critical applications
- Solid foundation in modern software engineering practices, including code reviews, CI/CD, and test-driven development
- Ability to contribute to technical strategy and business development efforts
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Must be a U.S. citizenship
- Must be able to obtain a Secret and Top Secret security clearance
- Reside in or willingness to relocate to the Huntsville, AL area
Preferred Qualifications
- Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipline
- Strong background in EW concepts, such as electronic attack, electronic protection, and electronic support
- Demonstrated experience developing electronic warfare, RF systems, or radar software in a team-based environment
- Deep expertise in electronic warfare systems and architectures
- Experience with GPU acceleration (CUDA), MATLAB, or advanced algorithm development
- Familiarity with FPGA development (VHDL/Verilog) and hardware/software integration
- Experience leading teams and building high-performance engineering organizations
- Prior experience supporting U.S. Air Force or DoD EW programs
- Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
April 29, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.
About Leidos
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.
Industry
It services
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Reston, VA, US