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Automotive Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Adler Pelzer Group

Controls Engineer

Salem, VA

$85K/yr

Variety of automobile purchase discounts (BMW, Ford, GM, Subaru-many others) * Tuition ... Proficient in application software programming. * Applies knowledge of electronics, electrical ...

Adler Pelzer USA

Controls Engineer

Salem, VA · On-site

$85K/yr

Variety of automobile purchase discounts (BMW, Ford, GM, Subaru-many others) * Tuition ... Proficient in application software programming. * Applies knowledge of electronics, electrical ...

Stem Xpert

Mainframe developer

Mclean, VA

$49.50 - $63.75/hr

... software engineering and systems integration. Our tightly integrated offerings are tailored to each ... Automotive, Life Science, Insurance, legal, healthcare, among others. It also offers outsourcing ...

Allocor Tech

Senior Electrical Engineer

Crozet, VA · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Drive hardware-software integration for motor controller systems, collaborating with firmware ... Experience designing to aerospace or automotive standards (DO-160, AEC-Q, MIL-STD-810)

Stem Xpert

Tableau Engineer

Richmond, VA

... software engineering and systems integration. Our tightly integrated offerings are tailored to each ... Automotive, Life Science, Insurance, legal, healthcare, among others. It also offers outsourcing ...

GRIMM

Chief Engineer - TS/SCI

Quantico, VA · On-site

Our engineers and subject matter experts (SMEs) learned their trade from real-world engagements ... software across traditional enterprise computing, embedded devices, automobiles, planes, drones ...

GRIMM

Chief Engineer - TS/SCI

Quantico, VA · On-site

Our engineers and subject matter experts (SMEs) learned their trade from real-world engagements ... software across traditional enterprise computing, embedded devices, automobiles, planes, drones ...

Stem Xpert

VMware system engineer

Herndon, VA

$53.50 - $66.75/hr

... Automotive, Life Science, Insurance, legal, healthcare, among others. It also offers outsourcing ... Must have at least 5 years' experience in full life cycle software development. Must have strong ...

Stem Xpert

Cloud engineer

Richmond, VA

$55.25 - $73.75/hr

... software engineering and systems integration. Our tightly integrated offerings are tailored to each ... Automotive, Life Science, Insurance, legal, healthcare, among others. It also offers outsourcing ...

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All JobsAutomotive Software Engineer JobsAutomotive Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Automotive Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$55K

$137.4K

$234.8K

How much do automotive software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive software engineer in Virginia is $137,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,300.00 and $181,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior automotive software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in embedded systems, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand markets or with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced expertise, certifications, and a track record of significant contributions to complex projects.

What is the salary of automotive software engineer?

The average salary for an automotive software engineer typically ranges from $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in embedded systems or autonomous vehicle software may earn higher salaries.

What does a automotive software engineer do?

An automotive software engineer designs, develops, and tests software systems for vehicles, including embedded systems, control units, and user interfaces. They work with programming languages like C and C++, utilize tools such as MATLAB and CAN bus protocols, and often collaborate with hardware teams to ensure software integrates properly with vehicle components.

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 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 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automotive software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in embedded systems, and leadership roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves working in advanced development environments, with expertise in areas like autonomous driving, AI, or cybersecurity, and may include bonuses or stock options.
More about Automotive Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Automotive Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Automotive Software Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Software Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Software Engineer jobs in VA? For Automotive Software Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Automotive Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,375 per year, or $66 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Adler Pelzer Group

Salem, VA

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Are you looking to join a pioneering team working in the evolving world of heavy trucks in the US?

If so, then the Engineering Manager position with STS North America at the brand new facility in Virginia is the role for you!

Adler Pelzer Group (APG) - a growing global Tier One supplier of Acoustic and Soft Trim products to the automotive industry recently acquired the STS Group. The STS Group is a stock listed, globally leading supplier of components and systems for the commercial vehicle and automotive industries headquartered in France. Together, APG and STS are pioneering operations of Class A surface components for the heavy trucks in the USA. We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineering to support the manufacturing operation in the opening of the first brand new STS facility in Salem, Virginia.

Benefits for the Controls Engineer:

  • Competitive pay and benefits package
  • Opportunity to be a part of a brand-new launch pioneering STS North American and grow one’s career.
  • Salary range for this position is 80 - 100K per year. Specific salary is commensurate with experience and factors such as relevant experience, education, certifications and licenses, skills, and training.
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance options
  • Paid time off
  • 401(K) match
  • Company provided life insurance, short term and long term disability insurance, employee assistance program
  • Variety of automobile purchase discounts (BMW, Ford, GM, Subaru-many others)
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development

To learn more about our Company and our rich history, visit our websites: www.sts.group and www.adlerpelzer.com

Duties and Responsibilities of the Controls Engineer:

  • Internal subject matter expert in control systems (Siemen's PLC, Allen Bradley PLC, HMI, Motion Control Systems), system integration, sensors and electro mechanical devices. Proficient in application software programming.
  • Applies knowledge of electronics, electrical circuits, mechanics, pneumatics, hydraulics, and programming to existing production equipment and processes.
  • Collaborates with planning, corporate engineering and the design staff concerning efficient production methods.
  • Applies statistical methods to estimate future manufacturing requirements and potential.
  • Examines specific work areas and make recommendations for improvements in throughput, inventory and operating expense.
  • Directs and guides manufacturing methods by the use of throughput, inventory, and operating expense as the method of operation.
  • Continuous Improvement on existing equipment to improve throughput and quality.

Note: This section is not inclusive. Other duties are assigned as necessary to support team goals.

Ideal Candidate Profile for the Controls Engineer

  • 5+ years of similar professional maintenance experience in a programming/process improvement role
  • Proficiency with CMMS software
  • Organizational skills
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Attention to detail
  • formal maintenance training including programming
  • the ability to interpret and use the following (to develop job plans):
    • piping and instrumentation diagrams
    • equipment drawings
    • predictive maintenance reporting
    • hydraulic and electrical schematics

Please respond with resume.

**NO RECRUITERS INQUIRING TO ASSIST WITH THIS SEARCH PLEASE**

We are an equal opportunity employer. APG and STS participate in the E-Verify Program.

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