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Software Project Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

IT Project Manager - Remote

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$104K - $123K/yr

Support the management of end-to-end project management activities for complex software projects from concept to regulatory filing and commercialization. * Utilize project management best practices ...

Responsibilities : • Lead customer implementation projects that include automation hardware ... custom software development. • Working closely with the customer to build trust, manage ...

You will play a critical role in managing hardware and software project timelines, mitigating risks, and ensuring that product launches meet quality, cost, and delivery goals. Key Responsibilities

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Showing results 1-20

Software Project Manager information

See California salary details

$41K

$92.5K

$133.7K

How much do software project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for software project manager in California is $92,466.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Software Project Manager?

A software project manager works in an information technology role to manage a company’s software product development and meet project deadlines. As a software project manager, you work with cross-functional teams in various departments to discuss what is and isn’t feasible with current software and generally help manage expectations. Your duties include overseeing product development lifecycles, documenting projects, coordinating product demonstrations, evaluating existing systems, drawing up budgets, mitigating risks, and helping develop and maintain company-wide standards. Throughout your career, you’re expected to keep up to date with industry standards and developments in software.

What does a Software Project Manager do?

A Software Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing software development projects. They coordinate between different teams, manage resources, set project timelines, and ensure the final product meets client requirements. Their role involves risk management, budget control, and regular communication with stakeholders to keep projects on track. Effective software project managers help deliver quality software solutions on time and within budget.

What are some common challenges Software Project Managers face when leading cross-functional teams?

Software Project Managers frequently encounter challenges such as aligning priorities among diverse teams (e.g., development, QA, UX), managing communication gaps, and balancing technical constraints with business goals. Navigating these challenges requires strong interpersonal skills, active stakeholder engagement, and the ability to adapt project plans as new requirements emerge. Regular stand-ups, clear documentation, and fostering a culture of open feedback can help ensure smooth collaboration and successful project delivery.

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

To thrive as a Software Project Manager, you need a solid background in software development processes, project management methodologies, and a relevant degree such as computer science or information technology. Familiarity with tools like Jira, Trello, Microsoft Project, and certifications such as PMP or Agile Scrum Master are highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and navigate project challenges effectively. These skills ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and meet stakeholder expectations in a dynamic tech environment.

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

AspectSoftware Project ManagerSoftware Developer
CredentialsProject management certifications (e.g., PMP), technical knowledgeComputer science degree, coding skills
Work EnvironmentTeam coordination, planning, client communicationWriting code, debugging, developing software
Employer & Industry UsageIT companies, software firms, tech departmentsSoftware companies, tech startups, IT departments

The main difference is that a Software Project Manager oversees project planning, coordination, and client communication, while a Software Developer focuses on writing and testing code. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their responsibilities and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Project jobs in California? The most popular types of Software Project jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Software Project Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Software Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Software Project Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,466 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Sr. Software Project Manager

Fieldpiece Instruments

Orange, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Lead the Development of Connected Software That Powers the Future of HVACR

Fieldpiece is the innovation leader in professional HVACR test instruments, trusted by technicians around the world to solve some of the industry's toughest challenges. We're investing heavily in the future of product development through modern Fast Time To Market (FTTM) methodologies, connected products, AI-enabled engineering, and customer-centered innovation. Named one of the Best Places to Work in Southern California for four consecutive years, we're looking for talented people who want to make an impact while growing their careers. 

Why This Role?

Exceptional software doesn't happen by accident - it happens when great project leaders bring people, priorities, and execution together.

As our Senior Software Project Manager, you'll lead the delivery of connected software products that are transforming how HVACR technicians work. Partnering with Product Management, Engineering, UX, Quality, Operations, and external technology partners, you'll turn product strategy into executable plans while coordinating the development of software that integrates seamlessly with Fieldpiece's connected ecosystem.

Beyond delivering successful projects, you'll help establish and strengthen software project management practices within a rapidly growing organization using Fast Time To Market (FTTM) methodology and Agile principles. If you enjoy bringing clarity to complexity, influencing cross-functional teams, and delivering innovative technology that makes a real difference for customers, you'll thrive in this role.

This position is in our Orange, CA office with an exciting move to Tustin, CA in 2028.  This role follows a hybrid work schedule, with employees typically working onsite three days per week. Additional in-office days may be required from time to time for onboarding, training, team meetings, project collaboration, or other business needs.

What You'll Do

  • Lead software development projects from concept through release and post-launch support.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams across Software Engineering, Product Management, UX/UI, Quality, and Operations.
  • Develop project plans, manage priorities, and proactively identify and resolve risks.
  • Drive communication, alignment, and accountability across internal teams and external development partners.
  • Support software release planning, testing, and successful product launches.
  • Help establish scalable project management processes and continuously improve software development workflows.

What Makes This Opportunity Different

  • Shape the future of product development at an innovation-driven company building the next-generation of connected HVACR products by applying FTTM methodologies to accelerate innovation.
  • Influence both what we build to solve real customer problems and how we build them
  • Help build the connected software ecosystem that powers the next generation of Fieldpiece products.
  • Work at the intersection of software, hardware, cloud technologies, and connected mobile experiences.
  • Partner with Product Management, Engineering, UX, Quality, and executive leadership to deliver innovative solutions.
  • Play a key role in building and maturing software project management practices as the organization continues to grow.
  • Influence not only what we build, but how we build it through modern Agile and hybrid development methodologies.
  • Join a company investing heavily in connected products, AI-enabled engineering, and long-term innovation.
  • Help drive the adoption of AI-enabled engineering, connected products, and technician productivity solutions in collaboration with global engineering organizations and strategic technology partners.

In Your First Year, You'll Likely Have:

  • Become a trusted leader across our software product development organization.
  • Successfully guided software initiatives through key development milestones and product releases – notably our mobile application.
  • Built strong partnerships across Product Management, Engineering, Quality, and external technology partners.
  • Improved project visibility, execution, and predictability while helping mature our software development processes.

What You Bring:

  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
  • Experience leading complex, full life cycle software development projects in Agile or hybrid development environments.
  • Experience coordinating cross-functional technical teams (internal and external) while managing competing priorities and timelines.
  • Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.
  • Experience with project management platforms such as Jira, Asana, Monday.com, Microsoft Project, or similar collaboration tools.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate ambiguity.
  • The ability to translate business priorities into executable project plans while balancing scope, quality, schedule, and risk.
  • Ability to travel up to 15% (national).

Bonus Points If You Have

  • Experience with connected products, IoT, cloud platforms, APIs, DevOps, or CI/CD environments.
  • PMP, Scrum Master, Agile, or similar project management certifications.
  • Experience helping organizations improve software delivery processes and project governance.

Why You'll Enjoy Working at Fieldpiece

  • As a privately held company, we invest for the long term—in our people, our products, and our future. That means we can focus on innovation, continuous improvement, and building lasting careers rather than chasing short-term results.
  • Work alongside talented, collaborative teammates who are passionate about innovation and solving real world problems.
  • Make a meaningful impact in a company where your ideas are heard, your expertise is valued, and your contributions help shape the future of our products and business.

Benefits & Perks

We believe great work starts with supporting our employees. That's why we offer a competitive total rewards package designed to promote your health, financial well-being, work-life balance, and professional growth.

  • Competitive base salary with annual bonus opportunity
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
  • Generous paid time off and paid holidays
  • Hire to Retire philosophy - Individual Development Plans for everyone and a commitment to support career development
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Health Savings Accounts (HSA), and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Music program – music rooms in all US offices with onsite guitar, piano, and voice lessons in California (classes can be streamed for other offices)
  • Recognition programs, launch parties and team building events to share successes

Our Culture

At Fieldpiece, our values shape how we work, collaborate, and serve our customers every day. We believe in:

  • Teamwork – We collaborate, support one another, and win as a team.
  • Urgency – We move quickly, stay agile, and focus on what matters most.
  • Respect – We value diverse perspectives and treat everyone with professionalism and integrity.
  • Trust – We build strong relationships through accountability and transparency.
  • Learning – We embrace curiosity, continuous improvement, and personal growth.
  • No Ego – We leave titles and egos at the door, value the best ideas regardless of where they come from, and work together with humility, openness, and mutual respect.