0160 - Software Engineering Manager

Software Engineering Manager

About Electra: 

Electra’s next gen mission is to develop Ultra Short aircraft, built for Direct Aviation. We are redefining the next level of connectivity, pioneering direct aviation – without airports, emissions, or noise. Electra’s Ultra Short aircraft will revolutionize air travel by bringing it closer to where we live, work, and play, making new connections possible. This makes a new venture like Electra exciting and fast-paced. Headquartered in Northern Virginia, we're on a quest to build a team of insanely talented people who want to do meaningful work.

Position Overview:

Electra is seeking a Software Engineering Manager to oversee the development of software at Electra. This role will support both direct program work and functional management, with a specific emphasis on leading software development on Electra’s EL9 Ultra Short aircraft. This is an incredible opportunity to make a direct impact on a cutting-edge development program. 

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions:

• Lead and manage the software development process at Electra, from requirements gathering through design, implementation, testing and deployment. 

• Manage the software engineering team at Electra, providing technical direction, guidance and mentorship, leading hiring efforts, conducting performance reviews, and fostering a collaborative and productive team environment. 

• Develop company- and program-level processes and documentation required to ensure software is developed in compliance with aviation software standards, such as DO-178C. 

• Oversee the design and development of software for various aircraft systems on the EL9 program.

• Work closely with aircraft systems engineers to define software requirements based on system-level needs, ensuring that software supports the overall aircraft functionality. 

• Interface with suppliers developing software to ensure compliance to internal standards, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance expectations. 

• Work closely with certification authorities to ensure that the software meets the necessary safety and reliability standards required for airworthiness certification. Guide the team through the certification process, ensuring all documentation (e.g., software development plans, verification reports, and test results) is properly prepared and maintained. 

• Address and resolve complex software engineering challenges, using a combination of technical expertise and problem-solving skills. 

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams consisting of engineering, operations, program leadership, suppliers and certification leads, to ensure successful project execution. 

• Other duties as assigned. 
   

Required Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering discipline with at least 12 years of relevant experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience) 

Required Skills and Qualifications: 

• Proven track record in leading software engineering teams. 

• Deep understanding of aviation software standards, particularly DO-178C, and experience in software certification and regulatory processes. 

• Proficiency in software development tools and languages, and software testing frameworks and methodologies. 

• Strong project management skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams in the development and certification of complex systems. 

• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. 

• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional, team-oriented environment. 

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. 

Desired Skills and Qualifications: 

• In-depth experience with certification of software for a FAA Part 23 aircraft program.

• Experience leading development of safety-critical software (DAL A or B) on a civil certification program. 

• Experience across the full life-cycle development of aircraft systems, from initial design and analysis to testing, certification, and operational monitoring. 

• Experience working on fly-by-wire and/or electric propulsion aircraft systems. 

• Private pilot certificate. 

Location: 

Headquarters in Manassas, VA. To encourage close collaboration this position is strongly preferred to be on-site. 
Travel: 25%, Domestic & International Travel
The above job description is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job.
Salary: Electra’s overall salary range for this level is: $104,000.00- $264,000.00
Our salary ranges reflect the minimum and maximum range for the Company level overall across all locations & projects and does not necessarily reflect the budgeted amount for this position. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and/or training, role, level, location, and project.