Data Device Manager

Data Device Manager

This position will be located in Birmingham, AL

 

JOB SUMMARY:     

The Data Device Manager plays a pivotal role in driving the innovation and development of M2M (Machine-to-Machine), IoT (Internet of Things) and mobile computing devices within the Southern Linc Engineering organization. M2M and IoT devices include a broad range of sensors and devices used for utility-specific use cases and applications, such as fault current indicators, meters, and network lighting controls.  This position also oversees the testing, certification, and support for the embedded chipsets and modules within all the devices that operate on the Southern Linc LTE network.  This position requires a dynamic leader who can manage a team of engineers, oversee the entire product development lifecycle, manage testing and device certification, ensure the delivery of cutting-edge products that meet market demands and customer expectations, and provide ongoing product support.   

This position will be responsible for conceptualizing and executing product development strategies, leveraging the latest technologies and industry trends to create high-quality, reliable, and scalable M2M and IoT solutions. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including engineering, IS, research and development, marketing, sales, customer support, and customer business units to align product development efforts with the organization’s strategic goals. 

In addition to technical expertise, this leader will need strong project management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. The role also requires a keen understanding of market dynamics and customer needs to drive product innovation. 

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in product development engineering, with specific experience in M2M and IoT devices, good interpersonal skills, and a passion for leading teams to achieve excellence. This role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of wireless LTE technology and make a significant impact on the organization’s success. 

 

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, or relevant experience. 
• Advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, IoT certifications) are a plus. 

 

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in product development engineering.  Experience with M2M and IoT devices is required. 

• Knowledge of utility-specific use cases and applications which require wireless connectivity is highly desirable. 

 

Skills

• Ability to manage the day-to-day activities of a development team. 

• Proven experience maintaining positive vendor relationships. 

• Understanding of industry standards (e.g., 3GPP, GSMA, PTCRB). 

• Solid critical-thinking and decision-making skills. 

• Proficient in finding creative solutions to complex problems. 

• Ability to collaborate with and lead colleagues. 

• Concise written and verbal communications skills. 

• Good communication, planning and organization/control skills; strong analytic and problem-solving skills. 

• A passion for people management and mentorship.  Be the technical and people leader for engineers of various experience levels. 

 

MAJOR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• Plan, direct and coordinate the actions of the engineering team.  Lead and mentor a team of engineers and technical professionals. 

• Manage individual engineer performance through regular 1-1s, quarterly reviews and annual performance review process. 

• Mentor team members to increase technical and soft skill levels. 

• Manage technical staff, providing guidance and task direction. 

• Manage data device testing and certification of various devices and chipsets/modules. 

• Manage data certification test programs and execution of programs against data devices and modules. 

• Develop relationships with and manage vendors related to data and modem devices. 

• Research new technologies to strengthen the organization. 

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to the organization. 

• Participate in and lead industry committees and organizations. 

• Ensure products meet quality, performance, industry and regulatory standards. 

• Ensure products pass all necessary certifications and compliance checks. 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Southern Linc Sales, Southern Company Research & Development, and individual Operating Company business units, to define product requirements and specifications.  Develop products and solutions based on the customer requirements. 

• Provide technical support and guidance for product-related issues. 

• Develop and maintain documentation, including user manuals and technical guides. 

• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes. 

• Identify opportunities for new product development and enhancements.   

• Influence industry standards to develop products that support Southern Linc’s business objectives.  

 

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com. 

Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf. Additional and specific details about total compensation and benefits will also be provided during the hiring process.

Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.