Head of Software | Embedded, Backend & Microservices | Defense Tech

A defense-tech startup of 50 people is developing an advanced, multi-module system that combines sensor data, real-time processing, edge computing, and distributed software to address complex operational challenges in the field.

We're looking for a Head of Software to lead the software domain end-to-end, from architecture and development to system integration and customer deployment. You'll lead a team of 8-10 engineers, shape the software architecture across Embedded, Backend, Microservices, and UI, and provide hands-on technical leadership in Embedded Software.

The Role

• Own the end-to-end software architecture across embedded systems and kernel, DSP, backend services, microservices, edge computing, and UI.
• Lead software development from design through system integration, deployment, and delivery to customers.
• Provide hands-on technical leadership of the Embedded Software team, including design reviews and critical technical decisions.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of ~8 engineers across Embedded, Backend, Full Stack/UI, and DevOps.
• Establish and evolve software development processes, CI/CD, source control, and engineering practices.
• Drive seamless integration between software components and hardware interfaces.
• Collaborate closely with Algorithm, Hardware, Systems, and Product teams, reporting directly to the VP R&D.

Requirements

• BSc in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering from a leading university.
• 8+ years of software engineering experience, including software architecture and technical leadership.
• Strong hands-on experience in Embedded Software, with or without an OS, including interrupts, memory management, and real-time software design.
• Excellent proficiency in C and/or C++.
• Strong backend development experience, including microservices and distributed systems.
• Proven ownership of complex software products, from architecture and development through deployment in the field.
• Familiarity with DevOps practices, Git, CI/CD, and agile development methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering teams while maintaining strong technical involvement.

Advantages

• Experience with Python and/or Node.js.
• Experience in a startup or small-to-medium-sized technology company.
• Background in defense tech, robotics, computer vision, sensors, edge computing, or real-time systems.
• Experience with CUDA/GPU processing, Embedded Linux, or hardware-software integration.

This is an opportunity to shape the software architecture and engineering culture of a growing defense-tech company, lead a multidisciplinary team, and bring a complex system from development into operational deployment.