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Automotive Programmer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Experience designing components and systems related to or applicable to the automotive industry. Demonstrated ability to teach junior engineers the art and science of mechanical design. Part types ...

Mechanical Engineer

Beaverton, OR ยท On-site

$95K/yr

... automotive and battery plants, aerospace facilities, data centers, commercial buildings, and labs * Perform psychrometric chart analyses and study weather to inform design decisions * Design ...

Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Engineering Physics, Industrial and Operations ...

Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Engineering Physics, Industrial and Operations ...

Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Engineering Physics, Industrial and Operations ...

The Senior Sales Engineer is responsible for driving revenue growth, expanding market share, and managing key customer relationships within the automotive, electric vehicle, and powertrain systems ...

The Senior Sales Engineer is responsible for driving revenue growth, expanding market share, and managing key customer relationships within the automotive, electric vehicle, and powertrain systems ...

Product Development Engineer

Hillsboro, OR ยท On-site

$100K - $170K/yr

Customers from the foundry, logic, memory, automotive, MEMS, advanced packaging and other markets ... Supports engineering changes, validation, and release of updates to existing products End-of-Life ...

Product Development Engineer

Hillsboro, OR ยท On-site

$100K - $170K/yr

Customers from the foundry, logic, memory, automotive, MEMS, advanced packaging and other markets ... Supports engineering changes, validation, and release of updates to existing products End-of-Life ...

Showing results 21-40

Automotive Programmer information

See Portland, OR salary details

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$41

$72

How much do automotive programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive programmer in Portland, OR is $41.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.26 and $54.57 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 Portland, OR? For Automotive Programmer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Programmer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Programmer jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Automotive Programmer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,210 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Engineering Manager

ITResource Hunter

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Position: Engineering Manager
Job Location: Portland, OR
Duration: Fulltime

Must Have:

  • Direct report responsibility of at least three mechanical design engineers doing component and systems design related to or applicable to the automotive industry. Experience must be at least three years and show positive business results.
  • Experience with phased product development and achieving project milestones at each phase. Planning work and defining engineering tasks through each phase to achieve results and adhere to a schedule.
  • Experience in career path planning and performance management of engineering staff at all levels from junior to senior.
  • Experience designing components and systems related to or applicable to the automotive industry. Demonstrated ability to teach junior engineers the art and science of mechanical design. Part types should be driveline, castings, shafting, and gears. Systems should include torque transfer, sealed enclosures, motor actuators, and controls.
  • Experience in engineering analysis and design optimization to achieve an intended design result, especially to reduce cost and maximize performance and product life.
  •  Experience in deploying engineering quality tools such as design failure mode analysis (DFMEA), design validation plan and report (DVP&R), design for manufacturability (DFM), bill of material (BOM) management, cost estimating, and project planning.
  • Experience working directly with customers through the whole product life cycle from gathering requirements to design development, product introduction, and sustaining engineering. Experience with negotiating specification details with challenging customers.
  • Experience in engineering problem solving, including the application of rigorous problem-solving methodologies and implementation of corrective actions
  • Experience driving product cost reductions and productivity improvement initiatives through design, material, process, and supply chain development.
  • Experience with administering or managing product lifecycle management (PLM) and engineering change order (ECO) systems.
  • Experience engaging engineering resources to address a customer emergency and meeting high demands in a timely manner.
  • Experience managing warranty analysis and reduction initiatives including root cause analysis, quality containment, implementation of corrective actions, and negotiating cost sharing with customers.

Preferred:

  • Experience leading supervisor level staff with their own technical staff.
  • Track record of innovation and patent history.
  • Proficiency in CAD design and mechanical drawings.
  • Agile project management
  • Business modelling. Cost, profit, and payback calculations.
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Project Management Professional (PMP)