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Automotive Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Magna

Sr. Software Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$115K - $152K/yr

Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're ... The Software Lead is the key technical interface for all software engineering topics. This role ...

Magna

Sr. Software Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

Making automotive technology that is smarter, cleaner, safer and lighter. That's what we're ... The Software Lead is the key technical interface for all software engineering topics. This role ...

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All JobsAutomotive Software Engineer Jobs

Automotive Software Engineer information

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$56.5K

$141K

$241K

How much do automotive software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 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 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.
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Automotive Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,011 per year, or $67.8 per hour.
Propulsion Base Software Development Engineer

Propulsion Base Software Development Engineer

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Stellantis rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

The Embedded Base Software Engineer will be part of a team responsible for developing basic software components for EE/core and powertrain control modules. The candidate will engage in software requirements analysis, design, coding, test plan creation, and testing for propulsion system base software. Responsibilities include performing reviews and inspections of requirements, design documents, C/C++/assembly code, and test plans. The candidate will also embrace virtualization methods and techniques used in the base software development life cycle and interact with other departments/vendors to elicit software requirements. Experience in Base SW diagnostics and low-level driver SW development is a plus.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related Engineering degree
  • 5+ years' total experience with embedded C/C++ software (hand-coding) in a Real Time Operating System environment.
  • Experience in Vector/ETAS/AUTOSAR Basic Software configuration of modules like OS, MCAL, IOHWAB, FEE, WDG, DEM, DCM, CAN, LIN, XCP.
  • Experience with multicore microprocessors, ability to interpret hardware schematics, and Functional Safety concepts (ISO 26262).
  • Experience with compilers, emulators, (Lauterbach) debuggers, and automation scripting.
  • Experience in software verification/validation including white box, black box, and gray box testing.
  • Familiarity with automotive software code quality standards like MISRA-C.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to adapt to a changing environment with minimal effect on productivity.
  • Experience using data acquisition tools like ETAS, INCA, CANoe, CANalyzer.
  • Experience with NXP Cobra-55, Aurix TC family of automotive microprocessors.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Engineering.
  • Automotive experience either at work or university, such as Formula SAE or SAE EcoCar.
  • Experience in Vector SLP communication stack configurations and implementation of CAN/LIN/XCP.
  • Experience with Electrobit EBTREOS Studio MICROSAR configuration.
  • Strong understanding of internal combustion engines, hybrid, battery electric, and/or vehicle subsystems.
  • Strong experience working in multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Experience in simulation/virtual methodologies and/or tools.
  • Experience implementing Embedded Real-Time Controls and Software solutions.

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