Software Project Lead

Role OverviewThe Software Delivery Lead is responsible for delivery predictability, readiness discipline, and execution orchestration for complex, embedded, and regulated software programs.This role does not include people management or technical design authority. Instead, it focuses on ensuring that software work starts ready, progresses predictably, risks are surfaced early, and delivery trade‑offs are framed clearly for decision‑making.Key ResponsibilitiesDelivery Orchestration & PredictabilityOwn planning and delivery for assigned software programsDefine and enforce readiness criteria before execution beginsTrack execution against milestones and commitmentsUse delivery indicators and milestone confidence signals to surface risks earlyIdentify delivery risks, dependencies, and constraint violations proactivelyExperience managing delivery in environments with both iterative and milestone-driven workStatus & Planning CoordinationServe as the primary point of contact for software delivery status, planning coordination, and cross‑functional dependenciesConsolidate delivery inputs into clear, leadership‑ready updatesCreate dashboards to communicate delivery status, progress and risksEnsure consistent delivery messaging across project and program forumsScope, Resource & Budget Trade‑off ManagementLead structured scope change impact assessments across: ScheduleCapacityCostDependenciesRiskSupport delivery‑level resource planning and identify capacity risks earlyTrack software delivery budget and spend at the project or program levelFrame trade‑off options and support commitment resets when requiredCross‑Functional CoordinationCoordinate dependencies across software, hardware, systems, quality, regulatory, and operations teamsRemove blockers or escalate when resolution exceeds team‑level authoritySupport one or more projects in parallel, depending on size and complexityRole BoundariesThis role ownsDelivery orchestration and readiness disciplineExecution tracking and delivery predictabilityDelivery risk identification and escalationCross‑functional coordination and dependency managementDelivery‑level resource and budget visibilityThis role does NOT ownPeople management or performance managementSoftware architecture or technical design authorityFormal technical or regulatory approval or sign‑offCost center ownership or financial approvalsTool administration or Scrum‑only ceremony ownershipAuthority & Leadership ModelThe Senior Software Delivery Lead leads delivery orchestration, readiness, and cross‑functional coordination.Final trade‑off decisions when scope, schedule, risk, and quality conflict remain with senior leadership.Strong facilitation and communication skills, with a proven ability to lead through ambiguityDemonstrated ability to influence without authority and coordinate across stakeholder groupsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +13 yrs. Assoc.+9 yrs.; M.S.+2 yrs.; PhD+0 yrs.)The ability to fluently read, write, understand, and communicate in English5 Years of Relevant ExperiencePreferred Qualifications5+ years as an embedded software developerDelivery or program certifications such as PMP, SAFe, or equivalentExperience supporting multiple concurrent programs in regulated environments8+ years ofexperience insoftware delivery, technical program management, or delivery leadershipExperience deliveringembedded and/or regulated software, including hardware‑software dependenciesDemonstrated ability to lead through influence without direct authorityStrong executive‑level communication and stakeholder management skillsExperience with delivery andplanning tools such asAzure DevOps, Jira, Microsoft Project, or PlannerStrong understanding of the software development life cycle and working with technical teamsWhat Success Looks LikePredictable software delivery with fewer late surprisesClear readiness before execution beginsEarly visibility into schedule, capacity, and budget risksReduced coordination and status burden on Software LeadsSustainable execution across multiple parallel programsATTENTION: Current Alcon Employee/Contingent WorkerIf you are currently an active employee/contingent worker at Alcon, please click the appropriate link below to apply on the Internal Career site.Find Jobs for EmployeesFind Jobs for Contingent WorkerCompensation and Benefits Alcon’s Total Rewards programs are designed to align incentives with business objectives, support our values, and deliver long‑term value. Our compensation approach includes a combination of fixed and variable pay, with short‑term and long‑term incentive opportunities for eligible roles. Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events, including programs that promote health and well‑being, provide financial security, and support retirement planning.The salary range posted represents the anticipated hiring range for this role. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, location, and internal equity, and may fall outside the posted range.Pay Range128,350.00 - 166,100.00Pay FrequencyAnnualAlcon is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. Alcon takes pride in maintaining a diverse environment and our policies are not to discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Alcon is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.SummaryLocation: Lake Forest, CaliforniaType: Full time