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Automotive Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automotive Technician

Rocklin, CA ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is preferred * Strong customer service and communications skills are required

Automotive Technician

Rocklin, CA ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is preferred * Strong customer service and communications skills are required

Automotive Technician

Rocklin, CA ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Automotive Service Excellence/ASE certification or Society of Automotive Engineers/SAE certification is preferred * Strong customer service and communications skills are required

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 ...

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 ...

Automotive Technician

Brookfield, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $45/hr

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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$12

$39

$68

How much do automotive programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 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 are automotive programmers?

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.

Which programmer has the highest salary?

Senior automotive programmers with extensive experience, specialized skills in embedded systems, and proficiency in programming languages like C and C++ tend to have the highest salaries in the industry. Salaries can also vary based on location, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they handle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Programmer, and why are they important?

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 highest paying job in the car industry?

In the automotive industry, senior engineering roles such as Automotive Engineering Managers or Chief Engineers tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities, typically involving overseeing vehicle design, development, and production processes.

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.

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.

What jobs can you get as a programmer?

As an automotive programmer, you can work in roles such as vehicle software developer, embedded systems engineer, or ECU (Electronic Control Unit) programmer. These jobs involve developing and testing software for vehicle systems, often requiring knowledge of programming languages like C or C++ and familiarity with automotive standards and tools.
More about Automotive Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Programmer job openings:
What states have the most Automotive Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Programmer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Automotive Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Automotive Programmer/Electrical Installer

Automotive Programmer/Electrical Installer

Super Vacuum Manufacturing CO Inc

Fort Collins, CO โ€ข On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

SVI Trucks builds custom fire apparatus, including rescue trucks, hazmat units, command vehicles, fire engines, tanker trucks, law enforcement vehicles and more. Every truck that leaves the factory is truly one-of-a-kind thanks to innovative engineering and meticulous construction.

This position is responsible for programming and configuring the electronic control systems used in fire trucks, as well as performing electrical installation and wiring tasks. The successful candidate will work with control modules, sensors, and operator interfaces that manage critical vehicle functions such as emergency lighting, door monitoring, warning systems, and other apparatus controls.


Essential Skills:

Adaptability and troubleshooting.

Strong mechanical aptitude.

Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics.

Other duties as assigned.

We will train the right candidate.

Experience with C++ is a plus.

Experience with automotive programming is a plus.


Additional skills and experience considerations:

Previous emergency vehicle upfit experience, lighting, radios and sirens.

RV / Bus wiring.

Requirements

General knowledge of low voltage or automotive electrical systems.

Ability to communicate with team members and customers in a professional manner

Must be able to climb ladders

Willingness to learn

Must be able to lift 50+ pounds

Pass a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and criminal background check


Benefits

Paid Time Off and Sick Time

Health and Dental Benefits

Life Insurance

401k matching

Dental Bill reimbursements ($400 per year)

Tuition Reimbursement

Employee Referral Program

9 Paid Holidays

We believe your Birthday is a holiday and is a treated as such! Take your Birthday off and get paid!

Employee Discounts through our vendors


Compensation: $23.00 - $28.00/hour DOE

Hours: 7:00 AM -3:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with occasional Saturday overtime.

Job Type: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Work Authorization: United States (Required)

For more information on our company, please visit www.svitrucks.comย 


Super Vac is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Super Vac does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.