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Automotive Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crestmoor Defense LLC

Role Summary We're looking for a Mechanical/Automotive Engineer to own chassis design, drivetrain integration, and structural/weight tradeoffs as we build out our autonomous and hybrid vehicle ...

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Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is required * An associate degree or completion of an automotive service technician training ...

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Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is required * An associate degree or completion of an automotive service technician training ...

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Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is required * An associate degree or completion of an automotive service technician training ...

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Automotive Programmer information

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How much do automotive programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive programmer in the United States is $39.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive programmer?

Automotive programmers are software engineers who design, develop, and maintain computer programs and embedded systems used in vehicles. Their work includes creating software for engine control units (ECUs), infotainment systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and other electronic components in modern cars. They often use specialized programming languages and tools to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with automotive industry standards. Automotive programmers collaborate closely with hardware engineers and automotive designers to integrate software seamlessly into vehicles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automotive programmer?

To thrive as an Automotive Programmer, you need a strong background in computer science, embedded systems, and automotive electronics, typically supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with programming languages like C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, and automotive protocols such as CAN and AUTOSAR, as well as experience with diagnostic tools, is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure the development of reliable, innovative vehicle software that meets safety standards and industry requirements.

How does an automotive programmer typically collaborate with engineers and other team members during a vehicle development project?

Automotive Programmers often work closely with electrical and mechanical engineers, project managers, and quality assurance teams throughout the vehicle development lifecycle. They translate requirements from engineers into software solutions, participate in design reviews, and troubleshoot issues as they arise. Regular meetings and cross-functional collaboration are essential, as real-time feedback helps to ensure software integrates seamlessly with hardware. This teamwork fosters a dynamic environment where programmers can learn from other disciplines and contribute to innovative automotive technologies.

What is the difference between Automotive Programmer vs Automotive Software Engineer?

AspectAutomotive ProgrammerAutomotive Software Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science, automotive engineering, or related fields; certifications in programming languages or automotive systems are common.Similar credentials; often holds degrees in software engineering or computer science, with additional certifications in embedded systems or automotive software.
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in automotive manufacturing plants, R&D labs, or software development centers for vehicle systems.Works in similar environments, focusing on designing, developing, and testing automotive software and embedded systems.
Industry UsageUsed in automotive companies, suppliers, and tech firms developing vehicle control systems.Commonly employed in automotive OEMs, suppliers, and tech firms working on vehicle software solutions.

Both roles involve programming and software development within the automotive industry, often requiring similar skills and credentials. The main difference lies in scope: Automotive Programmers typically focus on coding specific vehicle systems, while Automotive Software Engineers may handle broader software design, architecture, and integration tasks.

How much do automotive programmers make?

Automotive programmers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific skills such as embedded systems or automotive software development. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced programmers with specialized knowledge can earn higher salaries.
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Automotive Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Automotive Engineer

On-site

Crestmoor Defense LLC
See more jobs at Crestmoor Defense LLCexternal

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Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Team / Pillar: Vehicle & Powertrain, Autonomous & Hybrid Vehicle Team


Location: Hybrid


Employment Type: Full-time Contract


Reports To: Vehicle & Powertrain Lead (or Chief Engineer / Technical Lead on an interim basis)


Compensation: Contractual and finalized during contract negotiations


About Crestmoor STS

Crestmoor STS is the Sovereign Tactical Solutions division of Crestmoor Defense, an early-stage defense and advanced technology venture. Our Autonomous & Hybrid Vehicle Team is building a ground vehicle platform that integrates hybrid powertrain systems with an autonomy stack designed for operation in demanding, denied, and degraded environments.


Role Summary

We're looking for a Mechanical/Automotive Engineer to own chassis design, drivetrain integration, and structural/weight tradeoffs as we build out our autonomous and hybrid vehicle platform. You'll work at the intersection of traditional automotive engineering and the added structural demands of autonomy compute, sensor payloads, and protective systems — translating between disciplines that don't always speak the same language.


What You'll Do

● Design and develop vehicle chassis and structural systems that integrate hybrid powertrain components, autonomy compute hardware, and sensor payloads.

● Own structural and weight-budget tradeoff analysis as additional autonomy hardware and armor/protection payloads are added to the platform.

● Collaborate directly with the Hybrid Powertrain Engineer on electric motor and ICE integration, and with the Electrical Engineer on wiring harness routing and power distribution within the chassis design.

● Work with the Autonomy Stack and Systems & Safety teams to support sensor mounting, edge-compute placement, and integration of safety interlock hardware.

● Develop and validate prototypes through our staged development process — concept, subsystem prototype, environmental/controlled testing, and field trial.

● Support test and validation protocol design for field testing, working closely with the Test/Validation Engineer.

● Ensure designs meet applicable safety and durability standards for ruggedized, defense-adjacent ground vehicle applications.

Required Qualifications

● Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

● Demonstrated experience in vehicle chassis design, structural analysis, or automotive drivetrain integration.

● Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, or equivalent).

● Solid understanding of vehicle dynamics, structural loading, and weight-budget tradeoffs.

● Comfortable working cross-functionally with electrical, autonomy, and systems-safety engineers on a small, fast-moving team.

Preferred Qualifications

● Experience with hybrid or electric vehicle powertrain integration.

● Experience integrating sensor payloads (LIDAR, cameras, radar) or autonomy compute hardware into a vehicle platform.

● Experience in defense, government, or ruggedized/off-road vehicle contexts.

● Familiarity with FEA or other simulation tools for structural validation.

● Experience taking a vehicle platform from prototype through field trial.

What We Offer

● The opportunity to build foundational autonomous vehicle capability from the ground up at an early-stage venture, with direct influence over core platform architecture.

● A hybrid work arrangement.

● Compensation commensurate with experience, to be finalized during contract negotiations.

How to Apply

Apply