ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Car Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Car Guys Inc.

Web Developer

Rockford, MI · Hybrid

$35 - $75/hr

# **WEB DEVELOPER -- CAR GUYS INC. (GRAND RAPIDS, MI)** ## **Build the Future of Automotive Recruiting Software** Some companies build websites. **We build weapons.** Tools that change how an entire ...

ABC Warehouse

Systems Analyst Programmer

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Systems Analyst / Mainframe Programmer to support, maintain, and ... home and car electronics. With 700+ employees, we have grown to fifty brick and mortar retail ...

Tommy's Express Car Wash

Controls Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Program car wash controls system to support wash operations with appropriate timing, equipment ... software engineering * Experience in writing and developing ladder logic, structured text and ...

LITHIA

Internal/Used Car Technician

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Internal / Used Car Technician: Mercedes-Benz of Ann Arbor Mercedes-Benz of Ann Arbor is seeking an ... Gain exposure to Mercedes-Benz technology, engineering, and diagnostic systems * Access to Mercedes ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCar Programmer JobsCar Programmer Jobs in Michigan

Car Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$34

$59

How much do car programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for car programmer in Michigan is $34.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.40 and $44.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a car programmer?

To become a car programmer, you typically need a background in computer science or automotive engineering, with skills in programming languages such as C, C++, or Python. Gaining experience with automotive systems, embedded systems, and tools like CAN bus interfaces is important, and certifications in automotive software development can enhance job prospects.

How much do automotive programmers make?

Automotive programmers, also known as embedded software engineers in the automotive industry, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled programmers with knowledge of automotive protocols and tools like MATLAB or CAN are in high demand and may earn higher salaries.

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.

What is a car programmer?

A car programmer is a technician or engineer who modifies or updates a vehicle's electronic control units (ECUs) using specialized software and hardware tools. This role often involves tuning engine performance, resetting fault codes, or customizing vehicle settings, requiring knowledge of automotive electronics and coding skills.

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 highest paying job in the car industry?

In the automotive industry, senior engineering roles such as Chief Engineer or Director of Engineering typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities, and they often involve overseeing vehicle development and innovation projects.

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

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 cities in Michigan are hiring for Car Programmer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Car Programmer job openings:
Car Programmer jobs near you
Connected Car Services Engineer

Connected Car Services Engineer

Optimal Inc.

Superior, MI

Contractor

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Connected Car Services Engineer

Key Responsibilities:

Good experience in Connected Car Services (CCS), infotainment, and System level testing to meet R&R for IDD team.

Experience in design and development of Connect Car & Infotainment products from an OEM perspective.

Prefer experience with User profiles, Diagnostics, vehicle activations, other CCS related features.

Experience in Remote services.

Ability to prioritize tasks and self-initiative on completing assignments.

Conduct system level validation on Connected Car Services aspects such as User profile, vehicle activation, remote, diagnostics, maintenance, etc.

Responsible for performing North American connected car services & Infotainment System development and validation efforts. This will include reviewing specification, creating validation procedures based on spec review, conducting bench and vehicle field validation, and tracking development progress.

Conduct studies/clinics, evaluate competitive systems, revise/create specifications, and troubleshoot the vehicle sub-system interactions.

Complete projects and meet milestone timing for vehicle development.

Create innovative technologies for research and potential implementation into HMG vehicle platforms, cost savings, and technical road maps to improve Infotainment solutions.

Support the development and validation of User profile, diagnostics, vehicle activation, In Car Payment, connected Garage (myQ), Navigation, OTA, & infotainment systems.

Support port interface audits, quality gate audits, field issues support and meeting with business team.

Prefer knowledge of GSM, CDMA, LTE, and 4G/5G technologies to support server validation as part of the overall End-to-End development process.

Create technical reports for presentation to management and other stakeholders.

Ability to solve complex design issues and effective root cause analysis.

Knowledge of how to effectively utilize automated tool sets for efficient and effective testing of Infotainment aspects.

Interface with other departments such as Infotainment Software, Electrical Design, Product Strategy, Autonomous.

Experience with end-to-end vehicle Infotainment System architectures, mobile, and wireless computing architectures.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

Knowledge of validation of embedded systems

Understanding of server development

Experience in executing and validation scalable, reliable, and secure SW solutions

Knowledge for In-Vehicle communication protocols

Valid drive license and satisfactory driving record

Education Required:

Bachelor degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related field required.

Education Preferred:

Master degree

Experience Required:

2- years of experience in developing specifications and design verification test plans pertaining to Infotainment platforms

1-year experience in Infotainment System hardware and software design and/or its validation

Experience in design and release of electric related structures and components

Preferred experience in SW development


*Fully On-site

Apply