Lead software engineering for flight-critical systems, overseeing certification-driven development and managing large teams. Deep DO-178C expertise and technical leadership required. Strong partnership skills and experience in regulated environments.
Key Highlights
Technical Skills Required
Benefits & Perks
Job Description
Director of Software Engineering – Aerospace
The Ranger Group, a nationally recognized Engineering Solutions firm supporting industry-leading organizations in Aerospace & Defense, Medical Devices, Electronics, and Advanced Industrial Manufacturing, has been engaged to identify a Director of Software Engineering for a major Aerospace OEM in the Greater Chicago Area.
This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for overseeing certification-driven software development for flight-critical systems. The position is hybrid onsite, and relocation to the Chicago region is required.
Key QualificationsDeep DO-178C expertise, including leadership of programs up to DAL-A certification.
10+ years of progressive leadership experience, including recent responsibility at the Director (or higher) level managing large, multi-disciplinary teams of 50+ engineers.
Proven track record guiding embedded, real-time, flight-critical, safety-critical, or mission-critical software development programs.
Strong technical foundation: Electrical Engineering with CS minor, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science with embedded systems focus.
Demonstrated success partnering cross-functionally across Systems, Hardware, Test, Quality, and Program Management.
Experience operating in a highly regulated, certification-driven engineering environment.
About the RoleThe Director will own the strategic and operational leadership of software engineering across multiple programs, ensuring technical excellence, certification readiness, team performance, and delivery against safety-critical requirements. This leader will serve as a key interface with the FAA, DERs, systems teams, and executive program leadership.