Defect Manager – Automotive Software ProgramsJoin Intellias and take ownership of defect governance within a complex automotive software program supporting a premium global automotive OEM. This role is critical in ensuring high-quality software releases, transparent defect handling, and efficient cross-team coordination across distributed engineering organizations.About the ProjectYou will be part of a large-scale in-vehicle software platform development program focused on next-generation automotive technologies and connected vehicle solutions. The scope includes validation and integration of key in-car functions such as:User experience and infotainment featuresIntelligent assistantsCore vehicle servicesEmbedded software integrationThe program operates across multiple distributed teams and suppliers, following Agile delivery aligned with OEM milestones and strict quality gates. Due to the complexity of the platform and integration dependencies, structured defect management plays a central role in delivery success.Your ResponsibilitiesEstablish and maintain a centralized defect management process across the programEnsure transparent defect tracking, prioritization, ownership, and resolutionCoordinate defect triage sessions with development, QA, integration, and release teamsMonitor and report defect KPIs, trends, and quality metricsDrive root cause analysis (RCA) and continuous improvement initiativesEnsure compliance with release criteria and project quality gatesAct as the main point of contact for defect governance toward stakeholdersAlign defect handling activities with OEM processes and milestone expectationsSupport risk identification and mitigation related to defect backlog and release readinessFacilitate cross-team communication, escalation management, and issue resolutionRequirementsProven experience in Defect Management, QA leadership, or software quality governance rolesStrong understanding of SDLC and defect lifecycle management best practicesHands-on experience with defect tracking tools such as JIRAExperience working in large-scale, distributed, multi-team environmentsAbility to define, implement, and enforce defect management processesStrong analytical skills with experience tracking defect KPIs, trends, and root causesExperience supporting release management and quality gate activitiesExcellent communication, reporting, and stakeholder management skillsFamiliarity with Agile methodologies (Scrum, SAFe, or OEM-specific frameworks)Ability to prioritize defects based on severity, impact, and business valueNice to HaveExperience in automotive software programs (OEM or Tier-1)Knowledge of AOSP or embedded systems environmentsExperience in system integration and validation phasesUnderstanding of ASPICE processesExperience with CI/CD pipelines and automated testing environmentsExposure to cross-supplier coordination and governanceWhy Join Intellias?This role offers a unique opportunity to drive quality and delivery excellence within a cutting-edge automotive software program. As a Defect Manager, you will directly influence product stability and customer experience by leading structured defect governance across a highly complex engineering environment.At Intellias you will collaborate with top-tier engineering teams and global automotive leaders while working on advanced mobility platforms and next-generation in-vehicle technologies. You’ll join a strong engineering culture focused on ownership, continuous improvement, and long-term professional growth.