Lead Real-Time Embedded Software Engineer

Horizontal Talent; Sterling Heights (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Horizontal Talent in Sterling Heights, MI seeks an experienced leader to guide embedded software efforts on defense programs. The role blends hands-on C++ design with technical project leadership to shape software execution across disciplines.

You will drive the full lifecycle from planning through testing, review requirements, coordinate risk mitigation, and ensure cybersecurity integration while tracking performance against schedule and costs. A Secret clearance is preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience in object-oriented C++ embedded development.
• Background in real-time embedded software development and testing.
• Ability to provide technical direction to developers and guide project execution.
• Knowledge of Ethernet communications and software lifecycle processes.
• Familiarity with CMMI and EVMS/control accounts.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Eligibility for a Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead software execution for assigned contracts, balancing development work with technical leadership.
• Drive the full software development lifecycle from planning to testing and integration.
• Review requirements to ensure alignment with customer needs and contract scope.
• Partner with architecture leadership to support technical decisions and approvals.
• Coordinate problem-solving across teams to improve performance and cost effectiveness.
• Ensure cybersecurity activities are integrated into the software effort.
• Monitor technical, cost, and schedule performance and support corrective actions.
• Oversee estimation and earned value reporting, and contribute to EAC updates.
• Plan software schedules and build activities aligned with product milestones.
• Coordinate resources with managers to support staffing and delivery needs.
• Provide performance and development input for project team members.
• Work with PM and QA to align with business management, software quality, and CM procedures.
• Coordinate with safety and verification teams for software safety and test planning.
• Participate in milestone reviews and technical meetings with government and internal stakeholders.
• Communicate risks, issues, and opportunities clearly to leadership.

Tools

RTOS

Job description

Horizontal Talent in Sterling Heights, MI seeks an experienced leader to guide embedded software efforts on defense programs. The role blends hands-on C++ design with technical project leadership to shape software execution across disciplines.

You will drive the full lifecycle from planning through testing, review requirements, coordinate risk mitigation, and ensure cybersecurity integration while tracking performance against schedule and costs. A Secret clearance is preferred.