Software Engineering Manager

Description

At Gentex Corporation, we’ve created an environment where great ideas and great people can thrive. Leveraging a history that spans over 130 years, Gentex is a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders, and industrial personnel operating in high performance environments. Join our multinational team of exceptional and dedicated employees around the world and work on challenging and rewarding projects, grow your skills, and advance your career all while making a positive difference in the lives of our customers.

Together, you and Gentex can build a career that’s uniquely yours.

• B.S. in Computer Science, Software Engineering or related field required.
• M.S. preferred.
• Training in supervision and leadership preferred.

• 8+ years of experience in software engineering with emphasis on new product development.
• 2–5 years of experience in engineering leadership or technical supervision preferred.
• Experience building or scaling a software engineering team preferred.
• Experience managing subcontractors and remote teams preferred.
• Experience supporting military or other regulated programs preferred.
• Experience with embedded or real-time systems a plus.
• Security clearance desired or ability to obtain.

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineering Manager to build, lead, and grow a high‑performing in‑house software engineering organization. This position is software‑first in focus and combines people leadership with hands‑on technical guidance in the development of embedded firmware, mobile applications, and PC‑based software for next‑generation electro‑mechanical and electro‑acoustic systems. The Software Engineering Manager will initially lead a small team of firmware and application engineers and will be responsible for scaling the organization as software becomes a core product differentiator.

This role is central to transitioning development from external subcontractors to internal teams while establishing engineering standards, processes, and long‑term software strategy. Some team members will be remotely located in California, UK and Pennsylvania.

Gentex offers a robust benefit package- including, but not limited to, medical coverages, 401k, paid time off and excellent work schedules including a 9/80 work week.

• Build, lead, and scale the software engineering organization, including hiring, onboarding, mentoring, and performance management.
• Set technical direction for embedded and application software development aligned with system architecture and program requirements.
• Provide technical leadership, architectural guidance, and design oversight; contribute hands‑on as needed to support delivery and technical risk reduction.
• Establish and enforce software engineering standards, best practices, design reviews, and lessons‑learned activities.
• Drive transition from outsourced development to internal ownership of critical software capabilities.
• Serve as main interface for software subcontractors and external partners; develop statements of work and provide technical guidance.
• Plan, estimate, and track software development activities to meet cost, schedule, and performance commitments.
• Support bids and proposals, including conceptual design, cost estimates, and technical writing.
• Ensure compliance with site quality management system requirements and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and deliver technical reports, recommendations, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Support transition to production, including test strategies, process controls, and lifecycle support.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional groups to achieve enterprise and departmental goals.

• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop software engineering teams.
• Ability to plan, estimate, and allocate resources across multiple programs.
• Experience in workforce talent evaluation, hiring, and performance management.
• Ability to set team goals, drive execution, and maintain accountability.
• Strong verbal,…