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# Director of Software Engineering

- **Company:** Alava Consulting
- **Location:** Niles, IL, United States
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Embedded Software, Software Engineering, Safety Critical Systems
- **Published:** November 7, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.juju.com/job/28_25303_ff8b2edc1974f6f20fd81cbfb98e95e6

## About the Role

* Proven experience leading a large-scale embedded software engineering organization
 * Deep knowledge of DO-178 DAL A or MIL-STD-882 compliance processes
 * Experience with complex, regulated product development (aerospace/defense strongly preferred)
 * Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification a plus
 * Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills

## Description

A leading U.S.-based technology manufacturer supporting the aerospace and defense sectors is seeking a Director of Embedded Software Engineering to lead a global team responsible for the design, development, and sustainment of complex embedded systems. This role reports into the VP of Engineering and offers the opportunity to shape the future of safety-critical systems used in advanced aerospace platforms., * Lead and mentor a global team of 80+ software engineers

 * Oversee full software lifecycle for both new development and existing product sustainment
 * Ensure strict compliance with aerospace standards, including DO-178 DAL A and MIL-STD-882
 * Drive a strong engineering culture focused on design quality, innovation, and continuous improvement
 * Collaborate cross-functionally with systems, product, and manufacturing engineering
 * Establish and evolve development standards, tools, and processes
 * Manage department budgets, staffing plans, and capital resources
 * Represent the company externally at industry events and technical forums