AQ1 Systems is a Tasmanian-based global technology company operating in around 40 countries. We design and deliver intelligent aquaculture feeding systems that combine IoT sensors, real-time environmental data, machine learning, and advanced control software. Our products operate in demanding, mission-critical environments and present engineering challenges well beyond conventional SaaS platforms.
We are seeking an experienced Software Development Manager to lead our software engineering and QA function and support the continued evolution of AQ1's global product platform. This is a hands-on leadership role focused on clarity, delivery discipline, and sound technical judgement rather than large-scale re-architecture.
About the role
Reporting to the CTO, you will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for AQ1's web, mobile, IoT, and internal software systems. You will work closely with product, hardware, firmware, and machine learning teams to ensure reliable, scalable, and well-integrated software delivery. In the first 6-12 months, the focus will be on establishing strong development rhythms, gaining a deep understanding of the existing technology stack and integrations, and supporting well-judged decisions about how systems evolve over time.
Key responsibilities
Lead and develop the software engineering and QA team
Establish and maintain reliable agile delivery practices
Clarify the current software architecture and integration landscape to support informed decisions about future system evolution
Improve CI/CD reliability, testing discipline, and deployment consistency
Strengthen code quality, documentation, and review practices
Partner closely with the Product Manager on planning, prioritisation, and releases
Work collaboratively across R&D to support cohesive end-to-end product delivery
Provide hands-on technical guidance when required while maintaining a leadership focus
About you
You are an experienced software leader who brings calm judgement, technical credibility, and a practical delivery mindset. You are comfortable working across complex systems and multidisciplinary teams, and you know how to balance product ambition with engineering reality.
You will bring:
8+ years' professional software engineering experience
Strong experience with Python, TypeScript, and modern frameworks such as Django and React
Experience with relational and time-series databases including PostgreSQL, TimescaleDB, or InfluxDB
Experience with CI/CD pipelines and modern DevOps practices
Strong leadership and people-management capability
The ability to guide architectural and integration decisions without needing to own enterprise architecture
Experience with IoT systems, cloud-native development, mobile applications, or infrastructure fundamentals will be highly regarded.
Why AQ1
Globally deployed products with real-world impact
Complex, interesting engineering problems
Collaborative R&D environment with strong technical depth
Hobart-based role with possible hybrid working arrangements
A leadership role where clarity, judgement, and delivery matter
Living in Hobart
Hobart offers a high quality of life with short commutes, easy access to nature, and a sustainable pace, while working on globally deployed technology.
For a confidential discussion, please contact
Donald Coventry
Executive Recruiter, Searson Buck
M:
E:
#J-*****-Ljbffr