Software Development Group Leader (R&D / Deep Tech Hardware)

A rapidly scaling deep-tech venture in the life sciences space is strengthening its core engineering organization as it transitions from early commercialization to global expansion. This role is designed for a senior, hands-on software leader who can move beyond task execution to own systems, people, and delivery.

The position leads end-to-end software development for a complex hardware product and plays a central role in elevating software quality from “functional” to “industrial-grade.”

Key Responsibilities

• Own overall software architecture across application, control, and firmware layers

• Lead and develop a small, mixed team of full-time and contract engineers

• Drive delivery planning, prioritization, and release accountability

• Translate user, product, and engineering perspectives into robust product decisions

• Improve development processes, quality standards, and technical debt management

• Collaborate closely with hardware, optics, bio, and external vendors

• Establish continuous improvement at the project and team level (Agile / PDCA)

Requirements

• 4+ years of software development experience (C++, C#, Python, Java, etc.)

• Experience developing software tightly coupled with hardware systems

• System-level understanding across multiple software layers

• Prior experience leading development projects or teams

• Business-level English and native-level Japanese (or equivalent)

• Comfortable operating in fast-changing, resource-constrained environments