Lead Software Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 7, 2026. First seen by Alion on Nov 6, 2026.
Overview
At TDS Telecom, connecting people is at the heart of everything we do. We are forward thinkers who leverage cutting-edge fiber internet technology to strengthen communities. We are dedicated to excellence, which drives us to succeed together, creating a better world through meaningful connections. Ready to make an impact?
The Lead Software Engineer works independently or leads teams of 5 or more people responsible for application design, development, testing, and problem resolution work teams with significant autonomy and independence. The scope of work typically includes major system projects that support company-wide business operations. As an experienced developer and an experienced technical leader, the position receives periodic mentoring, feedback, and supervision by management.
Applications may include custom developed software, commercial packaged software, or open-source software. Software may consist of on-premise applications, cloud-based software and services, hybrid configurations, integration tools, or business workflow tools.
The Lead Software Engineer leads the team's use of AI coding tools. They will set the standard for reviewing and accepting AI-generated code, define where the tools should not be used, and share reusable prompts and automation.
This position has the ability to work remotely in any of the 40+ States in which TDS Telecom operates. Final candidates may be invited onsite for final interviews in Madison, WI.
Responsibilities
- Leads teams of 5 or more people that develop, test, and fix defects in application software.
- Leads the preparation and review of application software designs at the system level. The scope of design will frequently include multiple systems supporting company-wide business processes.
- Leads cross-functional work teams in preparing work estimates and project schedules for all technical work on projects. Mentors team members in the development of work plans.
- Leads work teams in resolving complex problems which are frequently unique, require creative problem solving and advanced technical skills, and frequently span multiple systems and may cross team boundaries.
- Maintains authoritative knowledge of all systems within the scope of the team's responsibility. Provides a consultative role to business process owners in the use and modification of system software. Maintains expert-level knowledge of software development best practices, tools, and methodologies that are recognized within the company.
- Leads teams focused on quality and continuous improvement initiatives across business units within the company.
- Maintains expert knowledge of the technologies and practices of the company's chosen markets. Maintains awareness of trends in technologies and vendor product offerings.
- Actively participates in preparing and conducting technical interviews of job candidates on behalf of the group manager.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Bachelors degree (or higher) -OR- 4+ years professional work experience.
- 5+ years experience in software development or testing.
Other Qualifications
- Knowledge of AI-assisted software engineering
- Knowledge of software development methodologies, practices, and tools.
- Knowledge of project management methodologies, practices, and tools.
- Knowledge of one more programming language used by the team.
- Knowledge of software testing practices and tools.
- Knowledge of problem-solving techniques and tools.
- Ability to travel as needed for company business and professional development.
- Ability to work nights and weekends as needed for system implementations and resolving system problems.
- Knowledge of business analysis practices and business process modeling.
- Knowledge of quality management and quality improvement practices.
- Knowledge of team leadership skills, practices, and behaviors.
- Knowledge of techniques, tools, and applicable laws to conduct effective and legal interviews.
- Knowledge of techniques for writing and presenting business proposals to management.
- Knowledge of effective writing and public speaking skills. Ability to convey complex information to general audiences.
- Knowledge of C# / .NET or a comparable primary stack.
- Knowledge of relational databases (Oracle or SQL Server) - data modeling and query performance.
- Knowledge of event-driven or streaming integration (e.g. Kafka), including ordering, duplicate delivery, and replay.
Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role. Experience and skills come in many forms, and they may not always match exactly what’s listed on paper, but they can still lead to success. If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!
Benefits
Associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week have access to medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k) plan, education assistance, and paid time off benefits such as vacation (15 days accrued per year for full-time; pro-rated for associates working between 20-39 hours), sick leave (10 days accrued per year for full-time and pro-rated for all other associates), seven paid national holidays and one floating holiday, paid parental leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment), among others. Short Term Disability and Long Term Disability coverage is also available for associates working 30 or more hours per week. Associates scheduled to work under twenty hours per week or for a limited term (i.e. interns) are eligible for medical coverage, the 401(k) plan (if 18 or older), as well as sick leave (10 days accrued per year for full-time and pro-rated for all other associates).
Click here for more specific information regarding our comprehensive well-being program.
Who is TDS Telecom?
TDS Telecom provides high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a diverse range of communities, including small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural areas across the U.S. With over 50 years of experience, TDS is committed to building and expanding fiber optic networks that bring cutting-edge connectivity to neighborhoods nationwide. Serving over 1 million connections, our mission is to create a better world by delivering innovative communication solutions that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. Visit tdstelecom.com to learn more!
At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value the difference of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives in our workforce. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.
Pay Transparency
The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on factors such as skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role-specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.