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Automotive Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Automotive Engineer (OBD Development)

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

An automotive company seeks a Vehicle Engineer in Plymouth, MI, to support the development, implementation, validation, and maintenance of onboard diagnostics strategies and engine management system ...

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$34

$59

How much do automotive programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive programmer in Michigan is $34.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.40 and $44.86 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 do you become an automotive programmer?

To become an automotive programmer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field. Skills in programming languages such as C, C++, and Python, along with knowledge of automotive systems and embedded systems, are essential. Gaining experience through internships or certifications in automotive software development can also improve job prospects.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Automotive Programmer jobs in Michigan? For Automotive Programmer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Programmer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Programmer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Automotive Programmer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Automotive Programmer job openings:
Automotive Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Programmer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,675 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Multiple Electrical or Automotive Engineers in Novi, MI

DBA Web Technologies

Novi, MI • On-site

Other

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Multiple Electrical or Automotive Engineers in Novi, MI

POSITION: Multiple Electrical or Automotive Engineers in Novi, MI
DURATION: Full-Time position
LOCATION: Novi, MI (onsite position)
Salary Range: Excellent Compensation with benefits + 401K
Travel: Occasional
Skills: Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Engineer, OBD Architecture, OBD Requirements, Automotive Diagnostic Tools

DESCRIPTION:

ROLE:

•    Lead the end-to-end definition of OBD implementation on UDS for software-defined vehicle architecture 
•    Own the diagnostic communication concept for OBD-relevant functions, including service definitions, DID strategies, DTC access, routine behaviors, session concepts, security interaction, and tester workflows 
•    Define scalable and robust requirements for how OBD-related data and services are exposed through UDS across domains, controllers, and diagnostic gateways 
•    Act as the technical lead for UDS (Unified Diagnostic Services) based OBD architecture, ensuring alignment between systems engineering, software development, diagnostics, validation, cybersecurity, and aftersales teams 
•    Establish a coherent strategy for diagnostic communication behavior in prototype, development, production, and service environments 
•    Review and approve diagnostic concepts, interface specifications, and implementation proposals to ensure consistency, compliance, maintainability, and serviceability 
•    Drive requirements traceability from architectural intent through software implementation, validation evidence, and release approval 
•    Support issue resolution by reviewing traces, service logs, communication behavior, and test evidence to identify root causes and define corrective actions 
•    Guide development teams on best practices for diagnostic communication design, integration, and robustness in an SDV environment 
•    Partner with platform and architecture teams to ensure the UDS strategy supports future scalability, OTA updates, centralized compute evolution, and long-term service needs 
•    Coordinate and contribute into prototype and serial development stages in terms of software availability, test planning, data review, diagnostic behavior alignment, and technical reporting 
•    Be involved in other related tasks / activities as require 

REQUIREMENTS:

•    Relevant degree such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Engineering, Technology, IT Systems, Computer Science, Mechatronics, or Engineering Technology 
•    Preferably in electrical engineering, automotive engineering, or computer engineering  
•    12+ years of experience in automotive diagnostics, embedded systems, software integration, or systems engineering, with deep expertise in UDS-based diagnostics and OBD implementation  
•    Strong experience defining and leading diagnostic communication concepts over UDS, including service behavior, data identifiers, routine control, session handling, security access, fault memory handling, and tester interactions  
•    Experience creating and governing OBD requirements on top of UDS-based software architecture, particularly in modern software-defined vehicle environments  
•    Strong understanding of diagnostic communication across CAN and Ethernet, diagnostic gateways, centralized compute concepts, and service-oriented vehicle architectures  
•    Proven track record leading cross-functional alignment between software, systems, validation, service, cybersecurity, and architecture teams  
•    Hands-on experience with automotive diagnostic tools such as CANoe, CANalyzer, CANape, ETAS INCA, and with requirements tools such as Jama, DOORS, or Polarion  
•    Familiarity with DTC concepts, freeze frame strategies, routine execution, service tool compatibility, and diagnostic trace analysis  
•    Ability to interpret software architecture documents, network/interface definitions, Simulink logic, and embedded software specifications  
•    Strong leadership, ownership, analytical thinking, communication, and decision-making skills, with proven ability to drive technical clarity and execution in a complex development environment  
•    Motivated engineer wanting to define and lead the diagnostic communication backbone for a new generation of electric vehicles 
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