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Software Project Manager Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Detroit Defense

Software Project Manager

Troy, MI

$110K - $150K/yr

This Software Project Manager role will drive project execution across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with industry standards and the successful delivery of high-reliability systems.

Ricardo Defense

Software Project Manager

Troy, MI · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

This Software Project Manager role will drive project execution across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with industry standards and the successful delivery of high-reliability systems.

Aptiv PLC

Software Project Lead

Troy, MI · On-site

Software Project Lead Why join Aptiv? You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge ... Manage customer expectations for North America programs, as well as, provide availability for ...

Aptiv

Software Project Lead

Troy, MI · On-site

Software Project Lead Why join Aptiv? You'll have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge ... Manage customer expectations for North America programs,as well as,provide availability for ...

Kaav Inc.

Technical Project Manager

Auburn Hills, MI

Randstad Engineering Solutions is looking for a senior technical software project manager in the Troy, MI area to manage a global automotive software development project. This project is for a Tier 1 ...

Daifuku

JBW IT Project Manager

Novi, MI

$92K - $109K/yr

The company is currently seeking an experienced IT Project Manager. IT Project Manager - Software The Project Engineer - Software is responsible for managing the software portion for airport baggage ...

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All JobsSoftware Project JobsSoftware Project Manager JobsSoftware Project Manager Jobs in Detroit, MI

Software Project Manager information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$41.1K

$92.8K

$134.1K

How much do software project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for software project manager in Detroit, MI is $92,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $111,400.00 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.

More about Software Project Manager jobs
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Software Project Manager jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Software Project Manager job openings:
Software Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Project Manager job openings in Detroit, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,752 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Software Project Manager

Detroit Defense

Troy, MI

$110K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description

Veterans Encouraged to Apply: Detroit Defense proudly supports those who have served. We welcome applicants with military experience, including those transitioning to civilian careers. Your leadership, adaptability, and mission-focused mindset are valued here. Detroit Defense is a 4x recipient of the Hire Vets Gold Medallion Award.


Detroit Defense is seeking an experienced Software Project Manager with a strong digital engineering background to lead development efforts for embedded, safety-related software products. This Software Project Manager role will drive project execution across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with industry standards and the successful delivery of high-reliability systems.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Lead planning, execution, and delivery of embedded software projects in compliance with model-based Digital Engineering practices. 
  • Coordinate development of safety-related software implemented in C/C++ within Linux POSIX and FACE Extended Safety Profile environments.
  • Manage cross-functional teams including systems engineering, embedded software, test, and quality.
  • Oversee configuration management, CI/CD pipelines, issue tracking, and documentation using GitLab and Jira.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to define scope, requirements, schedules, and budgets.
  • Identify program risks and lead mitigation planning
  • Ensure adherence to software lifecycle processes, safety requirements, and customer standards. 
  • Facilitate technical discussions, design reviews, and progress reporting.

Requirements

  • A Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, EE, or related field from an accredited college or university.
  • Must be able to obtain a US Secret Security Clearance.
  • A minimum of five years of proven experience managing complex embedded software or safety-critical development programs.
  • Technical understanding of C, C++, and C#.
  • Hands-on experience with GitLab, Jira, and structured software development processes
  • Familiarity with Linux, POSIX environments, and real-time or safety-certified architectures.
  • Familiarity with model-based engineering, including SySML and UML methods.
  • PMP and/or PMI-ACP Certification (Highly Recommended)


Detroit Defense offers an impressive compensation and benefits package including:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits
  • Company Paid Life and AD&D
  • Company Paid Short Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending & HSA Accounts
  • Legal & ID Shield Services
  • 401k with Company Match
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

Why Detroit Defense:
At Detroit Defense, we deliver mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, protect the warfighter, and enable readiness through innovation, technical excellence, and end-to-end lifecycle support.


Remaining steadfast in our core values of Trustworthy, Mission Driven, Creative, and Agile we are a complex systems integrator for the U.S. Government, Detroit Defense provides solutions to meet the technical and programmatic challenges faced by our customers. Our proven success in multi-domain cross-platform system-of-systems integration results in fielded capability for warfighters. From R&D to production, fielding, and sustainment, Detroit Defense provides services and solutions to Empower Those That protect Us.


Detroit Defense is a proud recipient of the Hire Vets Gold Medallion Award since 2022.


Detroit Defense is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity or gender expression), age, mental or physical disability, creed, ancestry, citizenship, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, medical condition, genetic trait or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

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