Software Development Lead, High-Speed Tracking Camera

This full-time role leads control and software development for a high-speed tracking camera within Nikon's Vision Robotics Division. The team develops control and software for robot-vision and high-speed tracking camera products, covering requirements definition, design, implementation and evaluation. Development is performed with external vendors and involves UI, image processing and control expertise.

The role coordinates with customers, sales, other development departments, quality assurance and external vendors. It translates customer requirements and business direction into practical development plans that balance technology, schedule and cost. Responsibilities also include assigning tasks according to team members' skills and workload, monitoring progress, quality and issues, and providing technical support through reviews and advice. The lead reports development status, technical issues and risks to customers and senior stakeholders, helping build agreement between the field, management and customers. The position also plans and carries out measures to improve development efficiency and quality, reduce dependence on individual knowledge, strengthen team processes, and manage people, time and budget while adjusting plans when risks arise.

Required experience includes at least three years leading a team of five or more members, at least five years of software development using C++, and at least one year of practical experience in image processing, video equipment or industrial equipment communications. Experience developing software for industrial video equipment, implementing industrial video interfaces such as GenICam, or working with industrial fieldbus standards such as EtherNet/IP and EtherCAT is welcome. Experience developing AI-based image-processing software, including image recognition or object detection, and experience using industrial robots are also welcome.

The product is in an early launch and evaluation phase. The role provides experience turning technology into a viable product, evaluating and improving practical image-processing performance, designing with the whole system in mind, and repeatedly assessing real equipment and applying measured results to specifications and implementation. It also involves creating embedded specifications and working with vendors on specifications that account for implementation. Customer evaluations and discussions during deployment provide direct input on required performance and usability. Longer term, the role may expand into higher-level system and concept design, business-related product considerations, other product development within the Vision Robotics Division, management or specialist career paths.

The position is based at the West Site headquarters in Nishioi, Shinagawa, Tokyo. Remote work is available, with a stated remote-work usage rate of 20–30%, and a super flextime system is available. Working time is eight actual hours with a 45-minute break; the listed office hours are 9:00–17:45. The probationary period is three months. Annual compensation is JPY 7.3–10.4 million. Benefits include commuting expenses, social insurance, a housing allowance subject to conditions, an employee stock ownership plan, defined-contribution pension, retirement benefits, childcare and nursing-care-related programs, and club activities. Holidays and leave include 128 annual days off, a complete two-day weekly holiday system, summer and year-end holidays, paid leave, special accumulated leave, condolence leave and refresh leave.