ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automotive Software Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutomotive Software JobsAutomotive Software Jobs in California

Automotive Software information

See California salary details

$5

$38

How much do automotive software jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive software in California is $37.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.40 and $38.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automotive software?

Automotive software refers to the specialized programs and code used to control, monitor, and enhance the functions of vehicles. This software is responsible for everything from engine management and safety systems to navigation, entertainment, and connectivity features. With the rise of electric and autonomous vehicles, automotive software has become increasingly complex and important, integrating with sensors, cameras, and various electronic control units to ensure optimal performance and safety. Professionals in this field may work on embedded systems, diagnostics, cybersecurity, or user interfaces within vehicles.

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 solid background in computer science, embedded systems, and automotive protocols, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with automotive standards. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, CAN bus analyzers, AUTOSAR architecture, and certifications such as ISO 26262 are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for excelling in this field. These competencies ensure the development of reliable, safe, and innovative software solutions that meet the rigorous demands of modern automotive systems.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in automotive software development?

Professionals in automotive software development often navigate challenges such as ensuring compliance with strict industry safety standards (like ISO 26262), integrating new software with legacy vehicle systems, and keeping up with rapid advancements in automotive technology. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers and quality assurance specialists, is essential for successful project delivery. Additionally, managing tight development timelines while maintaining high reliability and cybersecurity requirements can be demanding, but it also offers significant opportunities for skill growth and innovation.

What is the difference between Automotive Software vs Automotive Electronics Technician?

AspectAutomotive SoftwareAutomotive Electronics Technician
Required CredentialsProgramming certifications, software development degreesElectronics certifications, technical diplomas
Work EnvironmentSoftware development labs, vehicle simulation environmentsRepair shops, automotive service centers
Industry UsageDeveloping vehicle control systems, infotainment softwareDiagnosing and repairing vehicle electronic systems

Automotive Software focuses on creating and maintaining software for vehicles, while Automotive Electronics Technicians specialize in diagnosing and repairing electronic systems within vehicles. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but differ in skills, tools, and daily tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Software jobs in California? For Automotive Software jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Software jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Software jobs in California are:
Automotive Software jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Software job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,837 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Senior System Software Architect - Automotive Applications

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$152K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 242 rated software companies

Job description

Our ADAS Platform team is responsible for building a scalable and modular software stack that powers advanced driver-assistance systems across a diverse range of product lines and OEMs. We are looking for a highly motivated Senior Systems Software Engineer with a strong foundation in software architecture. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on working across multiple layers of the software stack to analyze performance, inter-operation and deterministic execution flows. You will play a key role in evolving the platform to support efficient integration and scalability in a complex multi-OEM environment.

What you will be doing:

  • Driving architectural improvements that simplify and modularize the software stack.

  • Designing and developing clean boundaries between components with performance-first approach to software modules.

  • Refactoring ADAS components to support reuse, extensibility, and long-term maintainability.

  • Partnering with teams across software, systems, and hardware to define clear interfaces and improve integration velocity.

  • Establishing test coverage, design reviews, and architectural documentation that scales with the platform.

  • Profiling and tuning system performance - optimizing for modern multi-core and real-time environments.

What we need to see:

  • BS or MS in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

  • 8+ years of professional software development experience.

  • Solid background in C++ programming.

  • Strong understanding of modular software architecture, clean code design, and separation of concerns.

  • Hands-on experience building and debugging multithreaded, real-time, or performance-critical systems.

  • Familiarity with parallel/distributed systems and low-level system profiling.

  • Comfortable working in Linux, QNX, or other embedded RTOS environments.

  • Exceptional communication skills and a collaborative, hard-working attitude.

Ways to Stand Out From The Crowd:

  • Experience developing ADAS software - especially in components like Planning, Sensor Fusion, Mapping, or Localization.

  • Deep understanding of real-time operating systems, particularly QNX.

  • Familiarity with the automotive software lifecycle and integration across safety-critical systems.

  • Experience with memory management, DMA engines, and hardware abstraction layers (HAL).

  • Experience using Git and Bazel in large-scale software environments.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4, and 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until April 26, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse 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