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Car Key Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Chief Engineer, Autonomy (R4614)

San Diego, CA

$200K - $300K/yr

Define and assign technical objectives, make key engineering decisions, and ensure the quality and ... car, etc.) * 7+ years of delivering software into production/certifiable environments with high ...

Graco

Mechanical Engineer

Fremont, CA

Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes ... This individual will contribute as a key engineering team member by generating ideas, providing ...

Graco, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes ... This individual will contribute as a key engineering team member by generating ideas, providing ...

KLA Corporation

Senior AI Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$159K - $271K/yr

... car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the ... Proficiency in key programming languages and APIs such as Python, JavaScript, Angular/Vue, C/C ...

Orbotech

Senior AI Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$159K - $271K/yr

... car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the ... Proficiency in key programming languages and APIs such as Python, JavaScript, Angular/Vue, C/C ...

Orbotech

Senior AI Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$136K - $231K/yr

... car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the ... Proficiency in key programming languages and APIs such as Python, JavaScript, Angular/Vue, C/C ...

KLA Corporation

Senior AI Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the ... Proficiency in key programming languages and APIs such as Python, JavaScript, Angular/Vue, C/C ...

KLA Corporation

Senior AI Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$136K - $231K/yr

... car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the ... Proficiency in key programming languages and APIs such as Python, JavaScript, Angular/Vue, C/C ...

KLA Corporation

Senior AI Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$159K - $271K/yr

... car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the ... Proficiency in key programming languages and APIs such as Python, JavaScript, Angular/Vue, C/C ...

Edmunds.com

Software Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$125K - $159K/yr

At Edmunds we're driven to make car buying easier. Ever since we began publishing printed car ... The key ingredients are our enthusiastic employees, progressive company culture and cutting-edge ...

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All JobsCar Key Programmer JobsCar Key Programmer Jobs in California

Car Key Programmer information

How to become a car programmer?

To become a car key programmer, you typically need technical knowledge of automotive electronics, programming tools, and vehicle security systems. Many professionals learn through specialized training courses, certifications, or on-the-job experience working with automotive diagnostic and programming equipment. Familiarity with vehicle makes and models, as well as attention to detail, is essential for success in this role.

What is the highest paying job at a car dealership?

At a car dealership, the highest paying jobs are typically general managers or dealership owners, with general managers earning six-figure salaries due to their responsibilities overseeing operations, sales, and staff. Sales managers and finance managers also earn high incomes, often supplemented by commissions and bonuses, especially in larger or luxury dealerships.

What are some typical challenges faced by Car Key Programmers in the field?

Car Key Programmers often encounter challenges such as dealing with a wide variety of vehicle makes and models, each with differing security protocols and key programming requirements. Staying updated with the latest technology and software tools is essential, as newer vehicles often introduce advanced security systems. Additionally, working in environments like roadside assistance or automotive shops can require quick problem-solving and adaptability, especially when customers are locked out or need urgent help. Collaboration with locksmiths, mechanics, and dealership staff is also common, making strong communication skills valuable in this role.

What are car key programmers?

Car key programmers are professionals who specialize in programming, duplicating, and reprogramming car keys and key fobs for vehicles. They use specialized tools and software to sync new keys or remotes with a vehicle’s immobilizer system, ensuring that only authorized keys can start the car. Car key programmers are often called upon when someone loses their keys, needs a spare, or encounters issues with their existing car keys or remotes.

How much should it cost to reprogram a car key?

For a car key programmer, reprogramming a car key typically costs between $50 and $150, depending on the vehicle make, model, and whether the process requires specialized equipment or professional service. Some locksmiths or automotive technicians may charge additional fees for programming or cutting new keys, and having the correct tools or certifications can influence the price.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Car Key Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Car Key Programmer, you need a solid understanding of automotive electrical systems, key programming procedures, and diagnostic techniques, often supported by vocational training or certification in automotive locksmithing. Proficiency with key programming devices, diagnostic scan tools, and specialized software is essential for the role. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with customers help set top professionals apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately resolving key and immobilizer issues, ensuring vehicle security, and delivering excellent customer service.

How to become a key fob programmer?

To become a key fob programmer, you typically need to learn automotive electronic systems and acquire specialized training or certification in key programming. Many technicians use dedicated key programming tools and software, and gaining experience with different vehicle makes and models is essential for proficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Car Key Programmer jobs in California? For Car Key Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Car Key Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Car Key Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Car Key Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Car Key Programmer job openings:
Car Key Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Car Key Programmer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Chief Engineer, Autonomy (R4614)

Chief Engineer, Autonomy (R4614)

Shield AI

San Diego, CA

$200K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

The Chief Engineer at Shield AI is responsible for solving complex technical challenges in deploying advanced autonomy solutions on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
 
As the chief authority on system architecture, design, development, risk mitigation, and product quality the Chief Engineer ensures the successful integration of Hivemind Autonomy across a range of aircraft, from small UAS to large autonomous collaborative platforms.
 
This role is part of the Hivemind Solutions organization and leads a team of engineers to deliver cutting-edge autonomous capabilities for business-to-business and defense contracts. The ideal candidate has defense industry experience as a Chief Engineer and a proven track record of leading technical teams to develop and deploy autonomous systems.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Serve as the Chief Engineer on Shield AI projects focused on developing and deploying autonomy solutions for unmanned aircraft
  • Lead a team responsible for advancing Hivemind Autonomy and shaping Department of Defense (DoD) autonomy architectures.
  • Define and assign technical objectives, make key engineering decisions, and ensure the quality and completeness of all technical deliverables
  • Provide technical leadership and oversight across both Internal Research and Development (IRAD) initiatives and DoD contracts.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree
  • 10+ years of industry experience in autonomy and/or UAS platforms (e.g., defense tech, self-driving car, etc.)
  • 7+ years of delivering software into production/certifiable environments with high-reliability
  • Understanding of guidance, control and navigation (GNC) (e.g. controls, estimation, planning)
  • Understanding of robotics stack (e.g., controls, estimation, perception, planning, etc.)
  • Understanding of software development processes and how to effectively deploy software
  • Experience defining technical scope and managing technical requirements, product architectures, ICDs and other system level design documentation
  • Demonstrate problem solving skills by applying a scientific technical approach
  • Customer-facing engineering leader supporting both defense and internally funded development programs
  • Contribute to government contract proposal writing
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Excellent leadership skills, driving a team of 6-20 engineers
$200,319 - $300,479 a year
#LI-DM1
#LE
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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