Software Program Manager

Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES) is seeking a Software Program Manager with exceptional technical depth and leadership capabilities to oversee the successful execution of complex software initiatives that power our rugged embedded computing products. This individual will not only drive program delivery but also serve as a critical technical partner to senior developers and architects, offering insight, challenge, and direction at every stage of the product lifecycle.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in embedded and systems software, deep program management expertise, and a demonstrated ability to lead through technical credibility, strategic vision, and operational excellence.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide end-to-end program ownership across embedded software initiatives, from early concept and planning through integration, verification, and support.
• Lead by technical influence—challenging engineering decisions, asking the right questions, and aligning software work with overall system architecture and business goals.
• Define and maintain development roadmaps, milestones, and execution plans with engineering leads and stakeholders.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration among firmware, drivers, OS, verification, DevOps, and hardware teams to ensure cohesive, high-quality product outcomes.
• Engage with technical teams at a peer level, bringing clarity to complex tradeoffs and guiding engineering priorities with a systems-level perspective.
• Own risk management, capacity planning, and escalation for critical dependencies and architectural decisions.
• Ensure that program deliverables meet schedule, quality, and technical expectations, while driving accountability across distributed teams.
• Represent software program status and strategy to executive leadership, and drive transparency through structured reviews and reporting.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in embedded or systems software development, ideally within highly regulated or performance-critical environments.
• Minimum of 7 years leading software program execution, with a focus on embedded platforms or low-level system development.
• Proven ability to lead through technical credibility, engaging senior engineers in collaborative and challenging discussions.
• Deep understanding of software architecture, hardware/software interaction, and systems integration.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex program structures, manage ambiguity, and drive execution without micromanagement.
• Experience coordinating internal teams and external partners across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Comfort working in programs involving defense, aerospace, or industrial safety-critical systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical presentations and executive briefings.
• Computer proficiency and a high level of organization with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work efficiently and independently.
• Ability to work onsite from our facility located at 9901 Silicon Prairie Parkway in Verona, WI.

Desired Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
• 13 years of experience in embedded or systems software development, ideally within highly regulated or performance-critical environments.
• Prior experience in technical leadership roles—such as lead developer, architect, or principal engineer.
• Experience working with real-time operating systems, board support packages (BSPs), or hardware bring-up.
• Familiarity with Agile, hybrid Agile, or systems-engineering-oriented workflows.
• Experience working directly with customers, including contract deliverables and field deployment considerations.

Compensation and Benefits

X-ES offers a competitive compensation package and excellent benefits, including:

• No-deductible, low-copay group health and dental insurance (90% employer paid)
• Health and wellness benefits coverage eligibility begins on the first of the month following your start date
• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance (100% employer paid)
• Paid time off, plus eight paid holidays a year
• 401(k) employer match up to 4%, subject to plan terms & waiting periods. Roth option is available.
• Participation in the 100% employee-owned Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) at no cost to employees

X-ES also takes a casual, small-business approach to company culture. At our state-of-the-art office and manufacturing facility located in Madison’s growing tech corridor, there’s no formal dress code, flexible day shift scheduling, and dedicated personal workspaces. Our employees kick back at regular company events and enjoy lunches from local pizza places and food carts. At X-ES, we strive to offer a comfortable, relaxed environment for our employees to do their best work.

About X-ES

When “rugged enough” isn’t rugged enough for embedded computing systems, industry leaders in the military, aerospace, industrial, and commercial sectors turn to Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES). Because we strive to be the premier provider of mission-critical embedded products while delivering exceptional levels of customer and employee satisfaction, we hire strong contributors and give them space to thrive. As a 100% employee-owned company, our employees both drive and directly benefit from our success. Together, we meticulously design and build products that stand up to some of the most extreme conditions on the planet.

X-ES is located on the far west side of Madison, WI. The company designs and manufactures rugged embedded computing solutions for a variety of applications. For more information, visit www.xes-inc.com.

X-ES is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other category protected by law.

All X-ES job postings and application procedures are posted in compliance with Section 39.08 of the Madison General Ordinances.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.