ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automotive Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Nvidia

Senior Software Engineer - Streaming

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Integrate streaming software with platform services, connectivity layers, and/or automotive system components. What we need to see: * Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or ...

Terraline

Senior Software Engineer - Automotive

Fremont, CA · On-site

$134K - $176K/yr

Senior Software Engineer - Automotive FLSA Classification: Exempt Reports to : Software Lead Supervisory responsibilities : None As the Sr. Software Engineer, you'll develop critical embedded ...

Terraline

Senior Software Engineer - Automotive

Fremont, CA · On-site

$134K - $176K/yr

Senior Software Engineer - Automotive FLSA Classification: Exempt Reports to : Software Lead Supervisory responsibilities : None As the Sr. Software Engineer, you'll develop critical embedded ...

Valeo

Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$96K - $156K/yr

We are an automotive supplier partner to automakers and new mobility actors worldwide. Our vision ... About the Role: As a Software Engineer, you will develop software in an automotive setting to ...

Valeo

Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$96K - $156K/yr

We are an automotive supplier partner to automakers and new mobility actors worldwide. Our vision ... About the Role: As a Software Engineer, you will develop software in an automotive setting to ...

Valeo

Software Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$96K - $156K/yr

We are an automotive supplier partner to automakers and new mobility actors worldwide. Our vision ... About the Role: As a Software Engineer, you will develop software in an automotive setting to ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutomotive Software Engineer JobsAutomotive Software Engineer Jobs in California

Automotive Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$56.7K

$141.6K

$242K

How much do automotive software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive software engineer in California is $141,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,400.00 and $186,800.00 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?

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.
More about Automotive Software Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Software Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Automotive Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Software Engineer jobs in California?

For Automotive Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Software Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Automotive Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Automotive Software Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Software Engineer jobs in CA?

For Automotive Software Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Automotive Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,591 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Senior System Software Engineer - Autonomous Vehicles

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 244 rated software companies

Job description

NVIDIA Solutions Engineering team is searching for engineers to help develop and bring NVIDIA's autonomous vehicle platform to the world. You will work on state of the art technologies alongside experts in Deep Learning, Computer Vision, and vehicle control for NVIDIA's next-generation automotive products. These products make use of the high-definition maps created by multiple industry leading mapping companies from all over the world. At NVIDIA, we seek to build an environment where phenomenal people can do their best work. We are looking for a System Software Engineer with expertise in embedded systems, good grasp of operating systems principles, and ability to engage with developers and partners on software design and solutions. The ideal candidate will work closely work with external and internal software groups to design, develop, and implement software and systems that will pull together diverse SW components for automotive platforms.
What you will be doing:
  • Collaborate with software engineers, hardware and architecture teams to design, develop, integrate, validate, and optimize software on NVIDIA's DRIVE self-driving platform
  • Regularly engage with customers directly to provide technical support and productize NVIDIA DRIVE platforms
  • Be part of an internationally distributed team with locations in US, Europe, APAC, and India
  • Be an internal champion among the NVIDIA technical community to productize software solutions
  • Craft solutions to system software, OS and application software challenges involving DRIVE products

What we need to see:
  • BS or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or closely related field
  • 4+ years of experience on system software and/or embedded systems
  • Solid understanding of computer architecture and operating system fundamentals
  • Experienced programmer in C or C++ with strong debugging skills
  • Worked with source control systems (git, Perforce)
  • Worked on developing applications and/or system SW drivers for HW accelerators in BSP & HAL
  • Ability to adapt to fast paced development lifecycles and cross-functional organizations
  • Ease of adapting to new technologies and platforms

Ways to stand out from the crowd:
Expertise in one or more of these areas:
  • Background in platform bring up and/or BSP software
  • Experience with QNX
  • Experience with ARM processors
  • Familiarity with Automotive software development process (CMMI or ASPICE)
  • Exposure to safety standards like ISO26262

NVIDIA is a "learning machine" that constantly evolves by adapting to new opportunities that are hard to solve, that only we can pursue, and that matter to the world. This is our life's work: to amplify human creativity and intelligence. NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and dedicated people in the world working for us. If you are creative, autonomous, and love a challenge, we would love to hear from you.
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 152,000 USD - 241,500 USD for Level 3, and 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 26, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

View All Nvidia Jobs

Apply