Job Description
Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Software Development Manager to lead a small team of engineers developing advanced software solutions for industrial control systems and optical measurement platforms. This role combines hands-on technical leadership in .NET applications using C++ and/or C# with a “player-coach” approach—contributing directly to development while providing strategic oversight, team development, and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in industrial automation, precision measurement systems, and a proven ability to lead high-performing engineering teams. Direct customer interaction is a core part of the role: the manager will engage regularly with customers and end users to understand how our inspection systems are applied in the field, gather requirements, and provide responsive technical support across our large installed base of legacy systems. This person will play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and optimizing software solutions that enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and performance of both new and existing systems. This is a full-time position located at our facility in Burnsville, MN. This role is part of the LiteSentry-Softsolution-Strainoptics Leadership Team, reporting to the General Manager. About Us: LiteSentry, LLC is the world leader in automated vision inspection systems for the flat glass and plastic industries. Our industry-leading technology measures flat glass for a variety of quality features that provides our customers with quantified results for quality thresholds while providing real-time process control. We are a growing, energetic company combined with Softsolution GmbH and Strainoptics LLC, who make related equipment for glass processing. LiteSentry offers a rewarding work environment with a competitive comprehensive compensation package, including fully paid employee health insurance, 401K plan, flexible personal days, paid holidays, and performance incentives. Key Responsibilities: Software Development Design, develop, and maintain .NET applications and services for glass inspection systems. Implement new features and functionalities based on customer requirements and industry standards. Write clean, scalable, and efficient code following best practices and coding standards. System Integration: Integrate software solutions with hardware components and existing third-party systems. Collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure seamless communication between software and inspection devices. Performance Optimization: Analyze and optimize the performance of software applications to ensure high throughput and low latency. Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and scalability issues. Quality Assurance: Develop and execute unit tests, integration tests, and performance tests to ensure software quality and reliability. Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members. Documentation and Training: Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for software design, implementation, and usage. Provide training and support to end-users and other stakeholders. Team Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product managers, hardware engineers, and quality assurance specialists. Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Develop and implement a strategy for incorporating AI into the software development process and our product offerings, including evaluating AI-assisted development tools, identifying opportunities to apply AI/ML techniques within our inspection software, and guiding the team’s adoption of these capabilities. Qualifications: Education and Experience Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 7 years of experience in .NET software development, with a strong focus on C++/C# and the .NET framework. 3+ years of experience in a direct leadership or management role. Technical Skills: Proven experience in developing software for industrial or manufacturing applications, including interfacing with and controlling external hardware such as cameras and sensors. Solid understanding of software design principles, patterns, and best practices throughout the full development cycle. Familiarity with front-end technologies such as WinForms, or web development frameworks is a plus. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently as well as in a team environment. Specialized Knowledge Vision Systems / OpenCV: Experience w