Director of Software

About the role

As Director of Software at NEX Aero, you will build and lead our software organization from the ground up, spanning three domains: Flight Control Software & Embedded Systems, Automation Software (autonomy & perception), and Cloud & Application Software. You will be a hands-on technical leader in your anchor domain while providing credible technical direction across the other two.

Your responsibilities

Build, lead, and scale NEX Aero's software organization across three domains: Flight Control Software & Embedded Systems, Automation Software, and Cloud & Application Software. Take end-to-end technical ownership of software delivery across flight control & autopilot systems, safety-critical embedded software, autonomy/perception software, and application, tooling & ground-control software.

Define software architecture, development standards, coding practices, and cybersecurity processes that hold consistently across all three domains. Ensure software across all domains is designed and delivered to meet applicable aviation certification requirements. Manage external software development partners and suppliers across domains, ensuring alignment with requirements, quality expectations, and delivery timelines.

Take a hands-on role in your anchor domain (embedded / real-time / safety-critical systems) — architecture, critical modules, key design decisions. Direct and evaluate technical decisions made by domain leads in automation software and cloud/application software, without needing to implement in those stacks yourself. Work closely with hardware, systems engineering, and certification stakeholders to ensure software integrates seamlessly across the wider product.

Your profile

Proven track record building and scaling software organizations from the ground up, ideally spanning more than one technical domain. Deep, hands-on expertise in embedded, real-time, and safety-critical software development — this is your anchor domain. Working fluency in at least one adjacent domain — autonomy/perception software (computer vision, sensor fusion, robotics) or modern cloud/application software (backend, frontend, cloud-native architectures) — sufficient to direct and evaluate domain leads' technical decisions.

Strong understanding of software certification processes in regulated environments. Experience managing external development partners or suppliers. Experience in flight control, robotics, automotive, aerospace, or similar safety-critical domains. A true technical leader with an ownership mindset, high quality standards, and execution focus.

Strong communication skills, with the ability to align technical and non-technical stakeholders around a shared architectural vision. Fluency in English; German is a plus.

What we offer

Competitive annual compensation. Meaningful equity participation (VSOP). A key leadership role in a high-impact aviation technology company. Direct influence on product, architecture, and team setup across all of software. Work on a system that is both technically and regulatorily demanding. Who We Are - NEX Aero At NEX Aero, we are redefining how critical cargo moves across the world.We design, build, and operate next-generation heavy-duty drones capable of reaching places traditional logistics can’t, connecting remote communities, enabling urgent healthcare deliveries, and strengthening supply chains in a changing world.

Based in Munich, we are an ambitious team of engineers, operators, and innovators working hands-on at the intersection of aerospace, clean technology, and logistics. Our work moves beyond prototypes, it creates real-world impact where reliability, reach, and resilience matter most. At NEX Aero, you won’t just build systems.

You’ll help unlock access, progress, and opportunity for industries and communities worldwide. Benefits — What You Can Expect Purpose-Driven Work: Join a mission that matters, advancing sustainable logistics and connecting the disconnected. Cutting-Edge Innovation: Work hands-on with next-generation drone systems, hydrogen technologies, and autonomous operations.

Fast-Paced Learning: Grow faster through deep technical challenges, field missions, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Collaborative Culture: We value clear communication, radical ownership, and low-ego teamwork across every role and level. Professional Growth: Shape your role as we scale, with opportunities to lead projects, innovate solutions, and expand your expertise.

Attractive Locations: Work from our modern office or our R&D lab, both close to the center of Munich, with flexible working options depending on your role. Health and Well-being : As an employee, enjoy the benefits of a WELLPASS membership. Real-World Impact: See the results of your work directly, from successful flight tests to critical deliveries that move what matters most.

At NEX Aero, we are serious about the mission, and we enjoy the ride.