Senior Director of Software Engineering

CDM Technology; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 295,000 - 310,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Market competitive compensation

Fully funded benefits package

Stock options

Generous Flexible Time Away policy

Job summary

A leading vehicle technology firm is seeking a Sr. Director to lead their Embedded Software and Electrical Engineering teams. Responsibilities include defining the technical roadmap for vehicle systems, managing product lifecycles, and fostering a high-performance engineering culture. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in automotive technology and a strong background in embedded systems. The role offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including stock options and flexible time away.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership position.
• Proven track record of executing complex hardware-driven vehicle products.
• Extensive experience in the automotive or EV industry.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the technical roadmap for vehicle electronic systems.
• Lead, mentor, and grow a world-class team of engineers.
• Oversee the delivery process and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Skills

Embedded software development

Electrical engineering

Leadership

C/C++ programming

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Linux

QNX

Android Automotive OS

Job description

This range is provided by CDM Technology. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$295,000.00/yr - $310,000.00/yr

Additional compensation types

Annual Bonus and RSUs

Senior Director, Software (+ Electrical Engineering Systems)

Position Summary

Seeking a visionary and experienced Sr. Director to lead our Embedded Software, VCU, and Electrical Engineering teams. This senior leader will be responsible for defining and executing the technical roadmap for all vehicle electronic systems and embedded software, from concept through high-volume production. The Sr Director will analyze the current vehicle architecture, vehicle functions and controls required and will coordinate the development, design and validation of these functions and equipment. The Sr Director will actively and directly participate in creation, definition and troubleshooting of the system and timely implementation of the vehicle.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy and Leadership:
• Align the department objectives and activities with the Company and product plan and development strategy
• Define and execute the overall technical strategy and roadmap for all vehicle embedded software systems, aligning with the company's product vision and business goals.
• Provide expert guidance on architecture decisions, technology selection, and scalable systems design for both hardware and software.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, product management, and other engineering domains to prioritize initiatives and ensure a cohesive product strategy.
• Team Building and Management:
• Lead, mentor, and grow a world-class team of electrical engineers, embedded software engineers, and systems engineers.
• Establish the organizational structure, roles, and responsibilities to support a high-performance, innovative, and collaborative engineering culture.
• Oversee talent acquisition and development, from hiring top-tier talent to fostering professional growth across the department.
• Product Development Oversight:
• Manage the full product lifecycle for all embedded software and electrical systems, from design and prototyping to validation and manufacturing.
• Oversee the design & implementation of vehicle systems, including but not limited to:
• High and low-voltage power distribution
• Powertrain, motor control, and battery management systems
• Solar system charging and control and interface with the propulsion systems and sources
• BMS system and full control and diagnostic of the electric battery system
• Infotainment and user experience (UI/UX) platforms
• Advanced interface and integration between HW and SW on the vehicle systems
• Vehicle control units (ECUs), firmware, and real-time operating systems.
• Execution and Delivery:
• Implement and enforce rigorous engineering best practices, quality standards, and risk management protocols.
• Oversee the delivery process, including sprint planning, design reviews, and quality assurance.
• Ensure all embedded software and electrical systems comply with relevant industry standards and safety regulations (e.g., ISO 26262, FMVSS).
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Work closely with manufacturing, operations, and supply chain teams to ensure robust design for manufacturability (DFM) and testability (DFT).
• Manage relationships with key external partners and suppliers for components and tools.
• Clearly communicate engineering progress, technical strategies, and resource needs to executive leadership and stakeholders.
• Technical Skills:
• Deep expertise in embedded software development (C/C++, other), including experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) like Linux, QNX, or Android Automotive OS.
• Ensure full compliance of the SW and HW systems with applicable standards and regulations as well as safety and efficiency of the vehicle systems
• Strong background in electrical engineering, including power electronics, controls, battery systems, and circuit design.
• Proficiency in vehicle communication protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN) and modern systems integration.
• Leadership and Personal Attributes:
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• A "builder" mindset with a passion for innovation and a hands-on approach.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, startup environment.
• Drive the department forward and to successful achieving the company’s goals

Team Structure

Manage individual contributors, managers; collaborate cross-functionally with management team.

Required Experience

• 15+ years of progressive engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or management-of-managers role.
• Previous experience and implementation of SW driven vehicle controls and attributes
• Proven track record of bringing complex, hardware-dependent products from concept to high-volume manufacturing.
• Extensive experience in the automotive, EV, or a closely related industry.

Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field is required. A master’s degree is preferred.

Salary + Benefits

• Market competitive compensation package
• Fully funded benefits package for employee + dependents (medical, dental, vision, etc.)
• Stock options
• Generous Flexible Time Away policy

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Motor Vehicle Manufacturing

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