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Automotive Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Nvidia

Software Security Architect

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Guide engineering teams on secure build, secure coding, threat mitigation, and security review ... automotive industry standards. What we need to see: * 12+ years of experience in secure and safe ...

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Automotive Software Engineer information

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$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.
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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 Embedded Software Engineer - Vehicle Access / Digital Key

Compunnel

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$146K - $191K/yr

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Required Skills & Experience
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
5+ years of professional experience developing embedded software.
Strong proficiency in Embedded C programming.
Strong Python scripting and automation experience.
Hands-on experience with Vehicle Access systems or Digital Key technologies.
Experience working with Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) standards.
Strong understanding of Bluetooth, UWB, NFC, RF communication, and wireless connectivity architectures.
Experience developing software for automotive ECUs and embedded real-time systems.
Knowledge of vehicle communication architectures and embedded software development processes.
Experience debugging and troubleshooting software across hardware, firmware, and system levels.
Nice to Have Skills & Experience
Automotive experience from companies known for advanced vehicle access technologies such as Rivian, Lucid, Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, or similar OEMs.
Experience developing software for Body Controls Modules (BCM) or Vehicle Access ECUs.
Knowledge of cybersecurity concepts related to vehicle access and secure authentication.
Familiarity with CAN, Automotive Ethernet, diagnostics, and vehicle communication protocols.
Experience with vehicle integration, validation, and launch activities.
Understanding of embedded Linux and RTOS-based systems.
Familiarity with ISO 26262, ASPICE, or automotive software development processes.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Embedded Vehicle Access Software Developer to help architect and develop vehicle access features that enable secure, seamless interaction between vehicles, mobile devices, and wireless technologies. This engineer will play a critical role in designing and implementing software for vehicle access systems, working across Body Controls ECUs, embedded platforms, and wireless communication technologies to deliver industry-leading Digital Key experiences.
What You'll Do
Architect and develop embedded software for Vehicle Access systems running on Body Controls ECUs and real-time embedded platforms.
Design, implement, and maintain Digital Key functionality utilizing Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) standards.
Develop software supporting vehicle access features utilizing Bluetooth, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), NFC, and RF communication technologies.
Collaborate with systems, hardware, validation, cybersecurity, and mobile application teams to deliver end-to-end vehicle access solutions.
Create and enhance embedded software written in C while leveraging Python for automation, testing, and validation activities.
Define and implement software architecture, interfaces, and communication frameworks between vehicle systems and external devices.
Support vehicle integration, debugging, and bring-up activities on prototype and production vehicles.
Troubleshoot complex software, connectivity, and RF-related issues across vehicle and mobile ecosystems.
Participate in design reviews, code reviews, and technical discussions to ensure scalable and robust vehicle access architectures.
Drive software quality through testing, automation, and root cause analysis throughout the development lifecycle
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About Compunnel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Compunnel is a well-known company located in Plainsboro, NJ, US, recognized in the industry of IT Services and Solutions. Established in 1989, Compunnel offers a suite of services that help businesses integrate technology efficiently into their operations, a recognizable name in the IT solutions sphere for over three decades. The company’s service portfolio includes Digital Transformation, Business Intelligence, Cloud Services, Cybersecurity, and Application Modern Services, among others. Guided by its mission "to innovate with industry-leading digital solutions and disruptive tech strategies for unimagining business growth," the company underlines its commitment to offering out-of-the-box solutions to its clients. Remarkable achievements of the company include serving more than 30 Fortune 500 companies and providing job opportunities for over 50,000 individuals.

Industry

It services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Plainsboro, NJ, US

Year founded

1994

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