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Automotive Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automotive software development experience * Experience with Test-Driven Development, Continuous ... The selected engineer will be well compensated. Please see and for more information. Zeeland ...

Vehicle Software Engineer (11124)

Palo Alto, CA · Hybrid

$169.04K - $253.56K/yr

We are seeking a Vehicle Software Engineer for our multidisciplinary Vehicle Software team in ... Support the build of Automotive systems & applications based on (but not limited to) Android ...

#Automotive Software Test, Sr.

San Diego, CA · On-site

$117.30K - $152.40K/yr

Qualcomm is a company of inventors that unlocked 5G/Mobile, and they are seeking ambitious, bright and innovative engineers with experience in Automotive software functional safety and test concepts.

Automotive Software Test, Staff

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134.80K - $202.20K/yr

Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Engineering General Summary: Qualcomm is a company ... We are seeking ambitious, bright and innovative engineers with experience in Automotive software ...

#Automotive Software Test, Sr.

San Diego, CA · On-site

$111.30K - $166.90K/yr

Job Area: Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Engineering General Summary: This ... We are seeking ambitious, bright and innovative engineers with experience in Automotive software ...

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System Engineer (Contract) Pay Range: $75-$78/hour plus benefits Initial Duration: 12-months with ... The ideal candidate has strong experience in embedded systems, automotive software architecture ...

Embedded Software Development Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$139.60K - $183.70K/yr

Join our Automotive Software Platform team as a Embedded Software Development Engineer in the Automotive Software platform team and help design the BSP for Hypervisor based Infotainment and ADAS ...

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Automotive Software Engineer information

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$56.5K

$141K

$241K

How much do automotive software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive software engineer in the United States is $141,011.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $186,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is an Automotive Software Engineer?

An automotive software engineer is responsible for the design and development of software systems used in car technology. These solutions may be used to control various environmental systems of a car, such as its wheels for automatic parking. As an automotive software engineer, your job duties include designing software solutions, programming software, and troubleshooting bugs. The career typically requires a bachelor’s in engineering, although some employers may prefer a master’s degree. You also need experience with software or system development in the automotive field, as well as an understanding of software design methods, operating systems, and programming languages. Additional qualifications include excellent technical skills and analytical problem-solving ability.

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

To thrive as an Automotive Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, embedded systems, and automotive-specific protocols, usually supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with programming languages like C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, and experience using automotive tools such as CAN, AUTOSAR, and diagnostic systems is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this role. These capabilities are crucial for developing reliable, safe, and innovative automotive software in a highly regulated and technologically advanced industry.

What are some common challenges Automotive Software Engineers face when integrating software with vehicle hardware?

Automotive Software Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring seamless communication between software systems and a variety of vehicle hardware components, such as sensors and electronic control units (ECUs). This requires a deep understanding of embedded systems, real-time processing, and rigorous testing to meet industry safety and reliability standards. Additionally, engineers must adapt to rapidly evolving automotive technologies and maintain compliance with strict regulatory requirements. Collaboration with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams is essential to address these challenges efficiently.

What does an Automotive Software Engineer do?

An Automotive Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software systems used in vehicles. This includes software for vehicle control systems, infotainment, safety features, navigation, and autonomous driving technologies. They work closely with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration between software and automotive components. Their role is critical in modern vehicles, which rely heavily on software for functionality, safety, and user experience.
What cities are hiring for Automotive Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Automotive Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Automotive Software Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Automotive Software Engineer jobs? The top employers for Automotive Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Automotive Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive Software Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Automotive Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,011 per year, or $67.8 per hour.
Lead Automotive Software Test Engineer

Lead Automotive Software Test Engineer

ALTEN Technology USA

Raymond, OH • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Electronics Engineering. Minimum 8+ years of experience in automotive software testing.

This position is focused on defining and leading testing strategies for AI-driven automotive software systems, ensuring performance, reliability, and safety of advanced in-vehicle technologies.

The role involves end-to-end validation strategy ownership, test architecture definition, and coordination of cross-functional testing activities within complex automotive environments.

The engineer will work closely with development, validation, and system engineering teams to ensure robust test coverage, high-quality deliverables, and continuous improvement of testing processes.

The position requires strong expertise in automotive testing environments, test automation, and validation frameworks, with a focus on intelligent vehicle systems.

 
Key Responsibilities : 

  • Test Strategy & Architecture 

Define and lead end-to-end test strategies for AI-driven automotive software systems

Design validation approaches to ensure performance, reliability, and safety of vehicle technologies

Establish test coverage frameworks and ensure alignment with system requirements

Drive continuous improvement of testing methodologies and validation processes

  • Automotive Testing & Validation Tools 

Execute and oversee testing activities using industry-standard tools such as dSPACE, CANoe, CANape, DIVA, and OpenTest

Support integration of hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) environments when applicable

Ensure effective use of measurement and diagnostic tools for system validation

Support end-to-end validation across automotive software development lifecycle

  • Test Automation & Scripting 

Develop and maintain test automation scripts using JavaScript, Python, and CAPL

Support automation of diagnostic and validation workflows

Improve efficiency and repeatability of testing processes through scripting and tooling

Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate automated testing into development pipelines

  • Data & Analytics in Testing 

Support use of data pipelines and analytics tools for automotive software validation

Analyze test data to identify trends, defects, and system performance issues

Contribute to data-driven decision-making for validation and quality improvements

  • Defect Management & Quality Improvement 

Track and analyze defects using structured metrics and reporting systems

Support root cause analysis and resolution of complex technical issues

Drive continuous improvement initiatives based on test results and quality indicators

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration & Coordination 

Collaborate with software, system, and validation engineering teams

Coordinate testing activities across multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders

Clarify responsibilities and ensure alignment across testing and development efforts

Build strong internal networks to support alignment and execution success

  • Communication & Reporting 

Communicate test results, validation status, and technical findings clearly to stakeholders

Prepare technical documentation, reports, and test summaries

Present complex technical concepts in a clear and structured manner

Support decision-making through accurate and timely reporting

Profile : 

  • Experienced automotive test engineer with strong background in software testing and validation
  • Comfortable working in complex, cross-functional, and safety-critical environments
  • Strong analytical mindset with demonstrated problem-solving capabilities
  • Self-driven, organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities effectively
  • Strong communicator with ability to align stakeholders and drive collaboration

Must Have : 

  • 8+ years of experience in automotive software testing
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Electronics Engineering
  • Hands-on experience with testing tools (dSPACE, CANoe, CANape, DIVA, OpenTest)
  • Strong programming/scripting skills in JavaScript, Python, and/or CAPL
  • Strong understanding of test coverage analysis and defect tracking metrics
  • Experience working in cross-functional automotive environments
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
  • Good communication and coordination abilities across teams
  • Experience in test automation and validation processes

Good to Have :

  • ISTQB or IREB certification
  • Experience with AI-driven or autonomous vehicle systems
  • Knowledge of data pipelines and automotive analytics tools
  • Experience with HIL/SIL environments
  • Exposure to automotive safety or compliance standards (functional safety, ISO, etc.)
  • Experience in large-scale OEM or Tier 1 automotive environments