Robotics Software Manager

Jabil; Nicholasville (KY); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Jabil seeks an Experienced Software Manager in Nicholasville, Kentucky, to lead a robotics software team focusing on innovative solutions. This role demands a strong technical leader with extensive experience in software development and proven ability to guide teams through the complete software lifecycle.

The ideal candidate will possess a relevant degree and has a track record in managing high-quality software delivery within timelines. Familiarity with programming in C++ and Python is essential, along with hands-on leadership experience.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional product software development experience.
• Prior experience leading or mentoring software engineers.
• Familiarity with ROS or ROS2, Linux-based systems, and distributed architectures.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of software for robotics platforms.
• Provide hands-on technical guidance and architectural oversight.
• Manage, mentor, and grow a team of robotics software engineers.

Skills

C++

Python

Team Leadership

Software Development

Agile Methodologies

DevOps Practices

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering

Tools

JIRA

Job description

Position Summary

Experienced Software Manager to lead a team of robotics software engineers developing cutting‑edge solutions for robotic platforms. Should be capable of guiding teams through the full software lifecycle—requirements, development, integration, testing, and validation—while ensuring alignment with system‑level goals and delivery timelines. Requires a strong technical leader with a proven track record of on‑time delivery of high‑quality software, combined with exceptional people leadership, planning, and execution skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of software for robotics platforms (e.g., autonomy, perception, controls, embedded systems).
• Provide hands‑on technical guidance and architectural oversight to ensure scalable, reliable, and maintainable solutions.
• Manage, mentor, and grow a team of robotics software engineers.
• Foster a high‑performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, career development planning, and coaching for team members.
• Break down complex initiatives into actionable work packages and ensure proper work sizing and estimation.
• Ensure timely delivery of high‑quality software that integrates effectively with hardware systems and broader robotics platforms.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional and business teams to align on requirements, system interfaces and project status.
• Ensure validation processes confirm system performance, reliability, and safety requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement in test automation and coverage.
• Ensure adherence to engineering standards, safety requirements, and regulatory considerations (if applicable).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering
• 7+ years of professional product software development experience
• Prior experience leading or mentoring software engineers
• Familiarity of C++ and Python programming languages
• Ability to size and manage software engineering work
• On‑site in Lexington, Kentucky

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with ROS or ROS2, Linux-based systems, and distributed architectures.
• Familiarity with simulation environments
• Experience deploying AI/ML models for perception or autonomy (particularly on NVIDIA hardware).
• Background in computer vision, motion planning, or control systems.
• Experience with Agile development methodologies.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts and status to diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of DevOps practices, cloud integration and edge computing.
• Experience managing software deliverables through issue tracking and ALM tools such as JIRA.