How Much Does a Head of Software make?

Head of Software made a median salary around $177,972 in December, 2024. The best-paid 25 percent made $198,142 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $161,883. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
25% $161,883 10% $147,234 90% $216,505 75% $198,142 $177,972 50%(Median)
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Best-Paying Cities for Head of Software

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Head of Software profession are Secaucus , Union City , Weehawken , West New York , Cliffside Park .
Secaucus, NJ $189,664
Union City, NJ $189,664
Weehawken, NJ $189,664
West New York, NJ $189,664
Cliffside Park, NJ $189,664

Best-Paying States for Head of Software

The states and districts that pay Head of Software the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $180,733) , California (around $179,109) , New Jersey (around $177,972) , Alaska (around $176,836) , and Massachusetts (around $176,673) .
District of Columbia $180,733
California $179,109
New Jersey $177,972
Alaska $176,836
Massachusetts $176,673

What is the Career Path of Head of Software?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Head of Software, the upper level is Software Engineering Director , and then progresses to Top Software Development Executive

Frequently Asked Questions for Head of Software

Q: What is the salary range of Head of Software in New Jersey?
A: In 2024 , the lowest-paid Head of Software in New Jersey earned an average annual salary of $161,883 , while the highest-paid made $198,142.
Q: What is the salary for a Head of Software in California?
A: Head of Software employed in California earned an average salary of $179,109 in 2024.

Average Head of Software Pay vs. Other Jobs

Head of Software earned an average salary of $177,972 in 2024. Other jobs related to Head of Software earned the following average salary in December, 2024. Head Of Software Engineering made $175,292 , Head of Software Development made $109,877 , Head of Software Quality Assurance and Head of Application Software Development made $215,223 and $281,390 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Head of Software

Head Of Software Engineering - Average Salary $175,292
There is currently no job description for Head Of Software Engineering, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Head Of Software Engineering.
Head of Software Development - Average Salary $109,877
There is currently no job description for Head of Software Development, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Head of Software Development.
Head of Software Quality Assurance - Average Salary $215,223
Head of Software Quality Assurance establishes and has overall responsibility for the goals, policies, and procedures for the software quality assurance function. Determines the tools, techniques, staffing and methodologies that ensure the efficient release of quality software features and new products. Being a Head of Software Quality Assurance drives continuous improvement activities. Requires a bachelor's degree. Additionally, Head of Software Quality Assurance reports to top management. The Head of Software Quality Assurance manages a departmental sub-function within a broader departmental function. Creates functional strategies and specific objectives for the sub-function and develops budgets/policies/procedures to support the functional infrastructure. To be a Head of Software Quality Assurance typically requires 5+ years of managerial experience. Deep knowledge of the managed sub-function and solid knowledge of the overall departmental function.
Head of Application Software Development - Average Salary $281,390
The Head of Application Software Development oversees the development, release, and maintenance of software applications in accordance with business needs. Establishes and directs the strategic long term goals, policies and procedures for an organization's software development program. Being a Head of Application Software Development demonstrates expertise in a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. May require a bachelor's/master's degree. In addition, Head of Application Software Development typically reports to top management. Responsible for the development of functional or business unit strategy for the entire organization. Defines corporate vision and strategy establishes company direction and focus. Executes multiple high impact initiatives to achieve overall corporate goals.
Head of Strategic Sourcing - Average Salary $266,431
Head of Strategic Sourcing defines and implements the organization's overall sourcing strategy and leads operations that build value-driven vendor partnerships focusing on risk management, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Implements structured negotiation processes that facilitate supplier negotiations and contracting. Being a Head of Strategic Sourcing establishes internal stakeholder coordination to define material, quality, and service requirements and standards. Develops vendor partnerships, sets KPI's and goals, and uses scorecards to measure and evaluate vendor performance. Additionally, Head of Strategic Sourcing explores and obtains new sources, methods, and vendors to ensure a reliable supply of materials. Studies market intelligence and conducts frequent market analysis and benchmarking to anticipate price fluctuations. Deploys ERP systems and other software tools to manage processes, create efficiencies, and control costs. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to top management. The Head of Strategic Sourcing manages a departmental function within a broader corporate function. Develops major goals to support broad functional objectives. Approves policies developed within various sub-functions and departments. To be a Head of Strategic Sourcing typically requires 8+ years of managerial experience. Comprehensive knowledge of the overall departmental function.