Embedded Software Manager

Embedded Software Engineering Manager

Location: Pune

Department: Embedded Systems / R&D

Reports To: Global FW Director + Pune Technical Head

Job Summary:

This leadership role is critical in aligning execution with product goals, optimizing workflows, and ensuring on-time delivery of high-quality firmware. While not hands-on coding, this role demands strong technical insight and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead and manage two embedded software teams: Embedded Linux / Yocto, Application firmware for microcontrollers, Connectivity SDKs (Wi-Fi, BLE, etc.)

- Define and optimize development workflows, tools, and cross-team processes.

- Drive effective communication between Embedded, Product, Cloud, and Mobile teams.

- Track and ensure progress, unblock teams, and ensure timely, high-quality deliveries.

- Establish and monitor KPIs for efficiency, quality, and velocity.

- Drive continuous improvements in engineering processes and collaboration.

- Plan and distribute workload appropriately, anticipating future resourcing needs.

- Contribute to roadmap planning and capacity alignment.

- Represent embedded teams in cross-functional planning and strategy discussions.

Required Qualifications:

- Bachelor's in Embedded Systems, Electronics, or related field.

- 20+ years of experience - 10+ years of experience in coding/development in embedded Linux software development and 10 years of management; microcontroller experience is a plus.

- Proven experience leading multiple embedded development teams (10+ developers).

- Strong knowledge of Linux/Yocto; familiarity with RTOS and microcontrollers beneficial.

- Proficiency in Agile/Scrum and modern development practices (CI/CD, DevOps).

- Solid understanding of connectivity protocols (Wi-Fi, BLE) and integration with cloud/mobile apps.

- Strong planning, organizational, and communication skills.

- Experience scaling and managing multi-skilled engineering teams.

Technical Skills (Hard Skills):

- Embedded Linux Expertise: Linux kernel, drivers, Yocto/Buildroot, U-Boot, device trees.

- Platform Knowledge: Hands-on experience with NXP i.MX8 SoCs and BSP integration.

- Toolchain & Debugging: Cross-compilation, GCC, GDB, JTAG, Lauterbach.

- Version Control & CI/CD: Advanced Git workflows, CI/CD tools (GitLab CI, Jenkins, Buildkite).

- Architecture & Quality: Modular design, real-time constraints, test automation, static analysis.

- Security & Compliance: Secure boot, TEE, firmware updates, GPL/LGPL, SBOM.

Leadership & Soft Skills:

- Technical Leadership: Guide architecture and conduct design/code reviews.

- Team Facilitation: Lead Agile ceremonies, resolve blockers, support team dynamics.

- Communication: Translate technical details into business context; liaise with hardware, QA, and PM.

- Decision Making: Prioritize under pressure, balance delivery with tech debt.

- Mentorship: Coach junior engineers, foster continuous learning.

- Adaptability & Conflict Resolution: Manage changing priorities and resolve conflicts constructively.