Software Development Manager: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

What Does a Software Development Manager do?

A Software Development Manager is responsible for leading and managing a team of software developers to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet organizational goals.

They oversee the entire software development lifecycle, from planning and design to implementation, testing, and deployment. The Software Development Manager collaborates with product managers, business analysts, and other stakeholders to understand project requirements and translate them into technical specifications and deliverables. They ensure that the development team follows best practices, adheres to timelines, and produces software that is scalable, secure, and aligned with business objectives.

Their work is essential in driving the success of software projects, fostering innovation within the team, and ensuring that the organization remains competitive through the effective use of technology.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Software Development Managers in the IT & Development field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a team of software developers, providing guidance, mentorship, and support.
• Oversee the software development lifecycle, from initial planning to final deployment and maintenance.
• Collaborate with product managers and other stakeholders to define project requirements and deliverables.
• Ensure that software development projects are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Implement and enforce best practices for software development, including coding standards, testing, and documentation.
• Conduct code reviews and provide feedback to developers to improve code quality and maintainability.
• Manage resource allocation, team workload, and project prioritization to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Stay updated with the latest software development technologies and methodologies to continuously improve team performance.

How to Become a Software Development Manager

Launching a career as a Software Development Manager requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field; a Master’s degree is often preferred.
• Extensive experience in software development, with a strong track record of leading successful projects.
• Proficiency in software development languages, frameworks, and tools relevant to the organization’s technology stack.
• Strong understanding of software development methodologies, such as Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall.
• Experience with project management and collaboration tools like Jira, Confluence, or Trello.

Requirements & Skills

• Excellent leadership and team management skills to effectively lead a diverse group of developers.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to make decisions under pressure.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality software.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Software Development Manager Salary Guide

Wondering what Software Development Managers earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

The average salary for a Software Development Manager in the U.S. is approximately $142,000 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Software Development Managers may receive a wide range of benefits.

Software Development Manager Salary Career Steps