1

Car Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Systems Analyst Programmer

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

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

Press Brake Operator

Holland, MI · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Preform programming and tool selection to produce formed parts per print * Read and interpret part ... Tommy Car Wash Systems ("TCWS") is the power behind our Tommy's Express equipment. TCWS is a team ...

Make minor programming and machine parameter adjustments to machines as needed * Read and interpret ... Tommy Car Wash Systems ("TCWS") is the power behind our Tommy's Express equipment. TCWS is a team ...

Car, Inc. (d/b/a Slate) Position: Sr. CAE Durability Engineer (Job Code: 1016) Duties : Responsible for performing durability, strength and stiffness simulations to develop and optimize EV body ...

Car, Inc. (d/b/a Slate) Position: Sr. CAE Durability Engineer (Job Code: 1016) Duties : Responsible for performing durability, strength and stiffness simulations to develop and optimize EV body ...

Since its start as the Google Self-Driving Car Project in 2009, Waymo has focused on building the ... Hardware Engineering is a diverse, innovative, and collaborative group of electrical, mechanical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Car Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$34

$59

How much do car programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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 or embedded systems 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 higher demand and may command 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 professional who develops, tests, and maintains the software that controls various systems within automobiles. This can include engine management, infotainment, safety features, autonomous driving capabilities, and more. Car programmers work with embedded systems and automotive-specific programming languages to ensure vehicles operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with industry standards. Their work is crucial as modern cars rely heavily on computer systems to function properly.

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 Automotive Engineering Managers or Chief Engineers tend to be the highest paying jobs, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities, typically involving overseeing vehicle design, development, and production processes.

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 does a car programmer do?

A car programmer develops and updates software for vehicle electronic control units (ECUs), such as engine, transmission, and safety systems. They use specialized tools and coding languages to modify or troubleshoot vehicle software, often working in automotive repair shops or manufacturing environments. Knowledge of automotive systems, programming skills, and diagnostic tools are essential for this role.
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Car Programmer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Car Programmer job openings:

SOFTWARE ENGINEER - Magna E-Car Systems - Contract

Pyramid IT

Troy, MI • On-site

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Pyramid is a leading Information Technology Consulting services company headquartered in metropolitan Atlanta, GA with prime emphasis on the following service offerings:
Staff Augmentation
Lifecycle IT solutions
o Application Development & Support
o Outsourced Testing
Mobile Development and Test Automation
The company was incorporated in the State of Georgia in 1996 and has grown to over 2500 Information Technology consultants serving clients across the United States and around the globe. In addition to Atlanta, Pyramid has offices worldwide including Charlotte, NC; Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Richmond, VA; San Francisco, CA and Somerset, NJ in the United States, London in the United Kingdom, Singapore, and three offices in India (New Delhi, Hyderabad and Chandigargh).
Pyramid has been ranked by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the largest diversity staffing firms specializing in IT and among the fastest growing U.S. staffing firm overall. In addition, Pyramid is a previous winner of the National Minority Supplier Development Council's Supplier of the Year and has won numerous Supplier of the Year awards from the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council.see less

Specialties

IT Staff Augmentation, Application Management Services, Enterprise Project Solutions, Mobile Development, Mobile Test Automation, Product and Engineering Services, Enterprise Mobility, Test Automation, QA - Manual and Automated Testing, QA Strategy

  • Website

    http://www.pyramidci.com

  • Industry

    Information Technology and Services

  • Type

    Privately Held

  • Company Size

    1001-5000 employees

  • Founded

    1996

Job Description

Title-Embedded Software Engineer Location-Troy, Michigan


Magna E-Car Systems develops and manufactures lithium-ion battery systems, and propulsion components and systems for hybrids and electric vehicles. It offers vehicle integration solutions as well.  We are looking for Engineers with the following skills and a strong background in Automotive domain. Please look for resources who have experience in Automotive ECU - Electronic Control Unit. Must have: C Programming Micro controllers Device testing Manual Testing Canalyzer

Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.