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Car Programmer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Director, Software Engineering

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$239K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mister Car Wash is rewriting the rules of the car wash industry. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona ... The Director, Software Engineering will be a strategic technology leader responsible for the design ...

Engineering Specialist

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mister Car Wash is rewriting the rules of the car wash industry. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona ... The Engineering Specialist leads the creation of new wash systems and technologies that enhance ...

Engineering Specialist

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

... car wash industry. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, we are the nation's largest and fastest ... The Engineering Specialist leads the creation of new wash systems and technologies that enhance ...

Architectural Program Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Assess proposed design changes for cost feasibility, constructability, value engineering opportunities, and alignment with the Mister Car Wash brand and technical standards. * Document all approved ...

Design Project Manager

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mister Car Wash is rewriting the rules of the car wash industry. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona ... The Design Project Manager collaborates closely with architects, engineers, clients, and internal ...

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced SAP IS Retail Analyst with Customer Activity CAR ... T Software Engineering or related technical field. * Certifications in SAP technology or ...

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Car Programmer information

See Arizona salary details

$11

$36

$64

How much do car programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for car programmer in Arizona is $36.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.99 and $47.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a car programmer?

To thrive as a Car Programmer, you need strong programming skills (such as C/C++), an understanding of automotive systems, and typically a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with automotive software platforms like AUTOSAR, diagnostic tools, and embedded systems development environments is common. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These skills enable the development of reliable, safe, and efficient automotive software that meets industry standards and customer needs.

What are some of the main challenges faced by car programmers when integrating new software with existing vehicle systems?

Car programmers often encounter challenges when integrating new software with existing vehicle systems due to the complexity and variability of automotive hardware and legacy code. Ensuring compatibility across diverse electronic control units (ECUs) and maintaining strict safety and security standards are common hurdles. Additionally, programmers must frequently collaborate with hardware engineers and testing teams to validate software performance under real-world driving conditions. Adapting to evolving automotive standards and technologies is also essential for continued success in this field.

What is the difference between Car Programmer vs Automotive Technician?

AspectCar ProgrammerAutomotive Technician
CredentialsTypically requires programming certifications, automotive software trainingRequires ASE certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly with software, computers, and vehicle ECU systemsHands-on repair, diagnostics, and mechanical work
Industry UsageUsed in automotive software development, ECU tuningUsed in vehicle repair shops, dealerships
Common Search IntentCar Programmer vs Automotive TechnicianCar Programmer vs Automotive Technician

While both roles involve working with vehicles, Car Programmers focus on software development and ECU programming, whereas Automotive Technicians handle repairs and diagnostics. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

How do you become a car programmer?

To become a car programmer, you typically need a background in computer science, software engineering, or automotive technology, along with proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python. Gaining experience with automotive communication protocols like CAN bus and understanding vehicle systems are also important, often supplemented by specialized training or certifications in automotive software development.

How much do car programmers make?

Car programmers, also known as automotive software developers, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific skills such as embedded systems or automotive protocols. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced programmers with specialized knowledge can earn higher salaries, especially in automotive manufacturing or technology companies.

What does a car programmer do?

A car programmer is responsible for updating and configuring a vehicle's electronic control units (ECUs) using specialized software and tools. They modify firmware, troubleshoot software issues, and ensure the vehicle's electronic systems operate correctly, often requiring knowledge of automotive systems and programming languages. This role is essential for customizing vehicle performance, diagnostics, and repairs.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Car Programmer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Car Programmer job openings:

Director, Software Engineering

Mister Car Wash

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$239K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Mister Car Wash rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 371 rated vehicle maintenance


Job description

Mister Car Wash is rewriting the rules of the car wash industry. Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, we are the nation's largest and fastest growing multibillion dollar car wash company with over 500 car washes in 21 states!
We wash cars for the fun of it. We put people first. We help turn jobs into careers.
We're currently seeking a Director, Software Development to join our Headquarters team!
The Director, Software Engineering will be a strategic technology leader responsible for the design, development, and delivery of software platforms supporting both digital and in-store retail operations. This role oversees eCommerce platforms, while also driving engineering excellence across store systems, integrations, and internal applications.
This leader will inspire and develop highly performing engineering teams, driving the delivery of scalable, secure, and reliable solutions to enhance customer experiences, optimize store operations, and enable sustained business growth. Partners closely with cross-functional across Marketing, Operations, and other key functions to ensure technology solutions are aligned with enterprise priorities and to accelerate the modernization of the retail technology ecosystem.
What You Will Do:
Strategic Leadership:
  • Define and execute the technology strategy for software platforms, including eCommerce, integration, and backend services.
  • Identify and evaluate emerging technologies, architectures, and engineering practices to modernize the technology stack.
  • Drive standardize and promote reusable, platform-driven solutions across digital ecosystems, collaborating closely with store environments.
  • Promote a culture of engineering excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Team Leadership & Development:
  • Lead, mentor, and grow a multidisciplinary engineering team (both internal and contractors).
  • Build capabilities across full-stack development, APIs, and enterprise integrations.
  • Establish clear performance expectations and career pathways.
  • Foster a collaborative, agile, and product-oriented engineering culture.

Software Engineering & Platform Delivery:
  • Oversee the design, development, and support of:
  • eCommerce platforms (web, mobile, APIs).
  • Integrations with Retail store systems (POS integrations, site systems, operational tools).
  • Internal applications and services supporting business operations.
  • Ensure systems are scalable, reliable, secure, and maintainable.
  • Drive engineering standards including coding practices, testing strategies, CI/CD, and release management.
  • Lead integration efforts across critical systems (CRM, POS, payments, data platforms, etc.).
  • Reduce technical debt and improve system performance and resilience.

Retail & Digital Experience Enablement:
  • Support digital customer journey initiatives including eCommerce and lifecycle engagement.
  • Partner with Store Operations and Business Intelligence to enhance in-store technology capabilities and connect digital + physical experiences.
  • Enable omnichannel experiences by collaborating with both Store Systems and Business Intelligence teams.

Budget & Resource Management:
  • Manage engineering budgets, vendor relationships, and resource planning.
  • Optimize team structure and sourcing strategy (internal vs. external).
  • Ensure efficient delivery against priorities and timelines.

Note: The job duties above provide a general sense of the role; though, additional duties may be assigned as necessary.
How You Will Shine:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field, Master's degree preferred.

Experience:
  • 10+ years of progressive experience in software engineering or technology leadership roles.
  • Experience leading engineering teams delivering both customer-facing and operational systems.
  • Experience in retail, multi-location environments, or transaction-based systems preferred.
  • 5+ years experience with Agile/DevOps practices and modern engineering tooling.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Strong communication and leadership skills.
  • Strong software engineering background across:
  • Backend services, APIs, and integrations.
  • Modern web/mobile development frameworks.
  • Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
  • Experience building and supporting distributed systems and enterprise applications.
  • Familiarity with eCommerce platforms and digital customer experiences (important but not primary).
  • Experience integrating with systems such as POS, CRM, payments, ERP, or similar.
  • Solid understanding of digital marketing technologies (e.g., SEO, SEM, analytics, personalization engines, CDPs).
  • Strong understanding of system scalability, reliability, and security.
  • Experience with Agile/DevOps practices and modern engineering tooling.

What motivates our team:
  • Excellent Benefits including medical, vision, dental, PTO, 401k, etc.
  • Career Progression with a high growth.
  • Modern office space in the heart of downtown Tucson.
  • On-site Fitness Gym and Bike Share.
  • Employee Game Room and Lounge.
  • Free Unlimited Wash Club Membership.

It's your time to SHINE! Join the Mister Car Wash team today!
Mister Car Wash provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicant for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. We participate in the E-Verify system nationwide.

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About Mister Car Wash

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Working at Mister Car Wash is all about opportunity -to be part of a team, achieve your goals, and have fun in a fast-paced environment. And with new stores in development, Mister has room for every team member to grow their career.

Industry

Retail

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tucson, AZ, US

Year founded

1969

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