Senior Manager, Software Engineering KC-46 Tanker Video Graphics System (Onsite)
About The Position
Lead the software organization responsible for the KC-46 Tanker Video Graphics System (VGS), shaping mission-critical avionics software for the KC-46 Pegasus. The role guides development, integration, and sustainment of VGS software supporting pilot and refueling-operator vision systems, real-time video processing, display rendering, and tanker-unique mission functions. The system processes high-definition sensor inputs, performs real-time video enhancement, and renders synchronized camera views to the Aerial Refueling Operator Station (AROS), providing boom operators with stable, low-latency, high-fidelity video for airborne refueling operations in day and night conditions. The Senior Manager leads a software engineering team and owns program execution, technical strategy, and delivery of robust, scalable, certifiable software. The role partners with program leadership, systems engineering, and customers; supports bids and proposals; develops the organization through hiring and workforce planning; and contributes to long-term product strategy and continuous improvement. The position is onsite in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and requires U.S. citizenship because access to program information is restricted to U.S. citizens. No security clearance is required.
Requirements
- Typically requires a STEM degree and at least 10 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree in a related field and at least 7 years of experience.
- Proven leadership experience managing software development projects in certification environments.
- Strong background in Earned Value Management (EVM).
- Experience leading and mentoring engineering teams.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
Nice To Haves
- Hands-on experience with DO-178C processes.
- Experience developing embedded graphics, video processing, or safety-critical avionics software.
- Experience with multicore processing and open architecture.
- Knowledge of Agile and Waterfall methodologies.
- Experience with lab integration, system-level testing, and engineering tools.
Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing software engineering team, supporting technical growth and career development.
- Drive architecture, design, and delivery of safety-critical avionics software for military applications, emphasizing KC-46 VGS capabilities.
- Own program execution and ensure delivery within scope, schedule, and budget.
- Implement engineering best practices across software development, verification, and certification.
- Partner with program leadership, systems engineering, and customers to align technical solutions with mission objectives.
- Lead technical strategy and support bid and proposal efforts, including solution development and scope estimation.
- Build and strengthen the engineering organization through hiring, workforce planning, and talent development.
- Influence long-term product strategy through technology roadmaps and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Identify program risks early and drive proactive mitigation strategies.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
- 401(k) plan with employer matching and a separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Student Loan Repayment Program
- Life insurance and disability coverage
- Optional pet, home and auto, additional life and accident, critical illness, group legal, and identity theft protection coverages
- Birth, adoption, and parental leave benefits
- Adoption assistance
- Autism benefit
- Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
- Healthy You Incentives wellness rewards program
- Doctor on Demand virtual doctor visits
- Bright Horizons child and elder care services
- Teladoc Medical Experts second-opinion program
- Flexible work schedules
- Flexible spending accounts
- Paid time off and holidays
- Potential annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation, depending on position level and other factors
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
