Software Development Manager - Hybrid in Okemos, MI [SDM-2026-09]

Agate Software, Inc.; Okemos (MI); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Agate Software, Inc. is seeking a dynamic Software Development Manager to lead Agate’s Project Development team through a critical growth and transformation stage.

This role focuses on building a scalable, disciplined development organization that balances speed, quality, and profitability. You will oversee a large team (10–15 direct reports) and partner with Product Management, QA, Project Management, Business Operations, and Sales to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, with

Qualifications

• Proven management of large development teams in fast-growth environments.
• Strong foundation in SQL, .NET (C# or VB), and JavaScript.
• Experience with Azure DevOps to manage workflows and standards.
• Hands-on leader who can transform chaotic projects into structured operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing Project Development team.
• Collaborate on implementing a Scrum-lead structure to scale delivery.
• Standardize processes, enforce delivery practices for predictability.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to balance speed, scope, and margins.
• Drive efficient utilization of developers to meet profitability targets.
• Build dashboards to track velocity, defects, utilization, and delivery.
• Ensure compliance with government contract requirements and audits.
• Foster continuous improvement and innovation in delivery quality.
• Report delivery outcomes, risks, and opportunities to senior leadership.

Skills

SQL

C# / VB

JavaScript

Agile/Scrum/SAFe

Azure DevOps

Leadership

Communication

QA Focus

Tools

Azure DevOps

Job description

At Agate Software, we are building a better world by revolutionizing how government agencies and nonprofits manage their grant processes. Our solutions empower our customers to maximize their resources, drive compliance, and focus on their core missions of distributing millions of dollars in funding for critical social services.

Our success is built on three pillars: Innovation, Integrity, and Impact. For over 20 years, Agate Software has been at the forefront of transformative innovation in the grant management industry. Our journey is marked by groundbreaking achievements and a commitment to pushing boundaries. By simplifying complex workflows, enhancing transparency, and turbo-charging efficiency, we enable our customers to maximize the impact of their funding.

Always challenging the status quo, we strive to set new industry standards and we are seeking the brightest minds to join us in this mission. If you're ready to apply your expertise in a dynamic, growth-oriented, mission-driven environment, read on to see how this position aligns with your skills and interests!

Please note that this is an onsite position that is eligible for a hybrid schedule (3 days required onsite/2 days remote) after the first 90 days.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a dynamic Software Development Manager to lead Agate’s Project Development team through a critical stage of growth and transformation. This role is about more than managing code delivery - it’s about building a scalable, disciplined development organization that can balance speed, quality, and profitability.

You willoversee a large, diverse team of project developers (10-15direct reports) andestablishaScrum-lead structure to strengthen leadership capacity.You willpartner closely withProduct Management,Quality Assurance,Project Management, Business Operations, and Sales to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, at strong margins, and with high customer satisfaction.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in transforming chaotic, ambiguous environments into structured, predictable, and scalable operations. You bring a record of accomplishment building high-performing teams, driving process standardization, and delivering measurable results in environments where transformation is the norm.

What You'll Do

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing Project Development team, building a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Collaborate on implementing a Scrum-lead structure to scale delivery capacity.
• Standardize development processes and enforce consistent delivery practices, ensuring predictability and scalability across projects.
• Partner withProductManagementand other functional and cross functional stakeholdersto balance delivery speed, scope, and customer satisfaction while protecting developer bandwidth and morale.
• Drive efficient utilization of developer resources to meet profitability and margin targets.
• Build and maintain data-driven dashboards to track velocity, defects, utilization, and delivery performance.
• Ensure compliance with government contract requirements, security standards, and auditability.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging innovation in process efficiency and delivery quality.
• Report regularly to senior leadership on delivery outcomes, risks, and opportunities for improvement.

What You'll Bring

• Proven management experience leading development teams in fast-paced, high-growth, or transformational environments.
• Strong technical foundation in SQL,.NET(C#or VB), JavaScript, and modern software development practices (Agile, Scrum,SAFe).
• Heightened focus on QA processes, validation, and testing prior to project delivery to customers. First pass quality mindset.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large teams (15+ direct reports) and build scalable leadership structures.
• Experience balancing speed, quality, and profitability in project-based delivery models.
• Hands-on expertise with Azure DevOps (Repos, Pipelines, Test Plans, and related tools) to manage workflows, track progress, and enforce standards.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills, with the ability to create structure in ambiguous environments.
• Effective communicationand cross-functional collaboration skills-able to influence stakeholders across ProductManagement, Project Management, Business Operations, andSales.

What Success Looks Like

• Projects consistently delivered on time, within scope, with first pass quality, and at defined margin targets.
• Developer utilization and resource allocation align with company profitability goals.
• Standardized delivery processes eliminate variability and reduce bottlenecks.
• Customers report strong satisfaction with delivery quality and timeliness.
• Team morale and retention remain high, with a strong sense of collaboration and engagement.
• Clear career paths and development opportunities are in place for all team members.

What Makes This Role Exciting

• Transformational Impact: You willplaya central rolein stabilizing and scaling a fast-growing company at a pivotal moment in its journey.
• Build Leaders: With one of Agate’s largest teams under your leadership,you willshape the next generation of technical leaders through a pod-lead structure.
• Direct Line to Strategy: Your work directlyimpactsprofitability, customer satisfaction, and delivery speed, making you a critical driver of company success.
• Challenging & Dynamic Environment: If you thrive in chaos, ambiguity, and change, this is your chance to create order, discipline, and lasting impact.
• Mission-Driven Work: Agate’s software powers critical programs in the public sector-you willlead a team whose work makes a tangible difference in communities across the country.

At Agate Software you'll be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference through cutting-edge technology and unwavering dedication to our impactful work. If you're ready to make a significant contribution to communities in need and grow your career in an inspiring and challenging environment,

Diversity Commitment:

As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where an expansive range of ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives are the foundation for innovation. We strive to attract, develop, and retain the brightest minds from all walks of life, and we encourage applications from candidates from underrepresented communities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity, and all those who can provide different perspectives that contribute to the diversification of our team. Individuals who embrace innovation and intellectual curiosity are invited to bring their unique personal and professional experiences to the table to enrich our creativity, thought leadership, and discovery.

Work Authorization: Please note that some customer assignments may require additional eligibility, vetting, or access approvals based on contract, security, or regulatory requirements.