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Car Programmer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Detergent Production Lead

Holland, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Associates Degree in Advanced Manufacturing, Chemical Engineering, or related field * 5 years of ... Tommy's Express is a national franchise for outstanding car washes and car care services. Powered ...

Sales Engineer

Livonia, MI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Sales Engineer At Rhino Tool House, we specialize in providing innovative technical products ... A robust benefits package, including healthcare, 401K with company match, car allowance, and travel ...

Sales Engineer

Flint, MI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Sales Engineer At Rhino Tool House, we specialize in providing innovative technical products ... A robust benefits package, including healthcare, 401K with company match, car allowance, and travel ...

Sales Engineer

Lansing, MI · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Sales Engineer At Rhino Tool House, we specialize in providing innovative technical products ... A robust benefits package, including healthcare, 401K with company match, car allowance, and travel ...

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Vehicle Labels Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$42.50 - $47/hr

Vehicle Labels Engineer You will deliver World Class Vehicle Engineering Labels solutions for new ... car and truck programs showcasing your knowledge, skills, and leadership during all phases of our ...

Showing results 21-40

Car Programmer information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$34

$59

How much do car programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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.

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 Michigan are hiring for Car Programmer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Car Programmer job openings:

Product Line Manager - Smart Car Access / Digital Key

Northville, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Product Line Manager - Smart Car Access / Digital Key
Location Northville, USA
FORVIA HELLA is a listed, international automotive supplier. Coming together with Faurecia in the FORVIA Group, we build the world's seventh largest supplier of automotive technologies. As a global market leader in high-growth areas, FORVIA employs 157,000 people worldwide. FORVIA HELLA therein stands for high-performance lighting technology and automotive electronics. At the same time, we cover a broad service and product portfolio for the spare parts and workshop business as well as for manufacturers of special vehicles with our Business Group Lifecycle Solutions. With around 37,500 employees at over 125 locations, the Company is active worldwide and generated adjusted sales of € 8.1 billion on a preliminary basis in the fiscal year 2023.
YOUR TASKS
Forvia Hella is seekingour next great Product Line Manager - Smart Car Access / Digital Key to join our growing body controls group. The primary functionof this role is to take ownership of overall product segment development. This includes engineering, project management, and market governance. Thisindividual will be joining a well established team that is heavily involved in nextgeneration connected vehicle initiatives.
About Us
HELLA is a listed, internationally positioned automotive supplier operatingunder the umbrella brand FORVIA. Within this factual group, HELLA stands forhigh-performance lighting technology and automotive electronics. At the sametime, the Company covers a broad service and product portfolio for the spareparts and workshop business as well as for manufacturers of special-purposevehicles with its Lifecycle Solutions business group. HELLA has around 36,000employees at more than 125 locations worldwide and generated sales of €4.4billion in the seven-month short fiscal year 2022.
Daily Responsibilities
  • Define and drive the long-term vision, strategy, and roadmap for smart vehicle access products.
  • Establish product line goals aligned with corporate growth strategies.
  • Own product line revenue, profitability, and market share objectives.
  • Build relationships with automotive OEM customers and strategic partners.
  • Align global teams around product priorities and execution plans.
  • Mentor and develop product managers and business leaders.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS
Qualifications
  • Masters's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in automotive technology, connected mobility, access control, IoT, or related industries.
  • 5+ years of leadership experience managing product portfolios or business units.
  • Demonstrated success leading complex software-hardware products from concept through commercialization.
  • Experience managing P&L responsibilities and business growth initiatives.

Why Forvia Hella?
  • Hybrid work schedules and flexible core hours
  • Industry leading health benefits program
  • Lucrative PTO policy
  • Competitive 401K matching
  • Extensive career and training opportunities
  • Annual Bonuses
  • On campus restaurant as well as employee water and coffee services
  • Team and company wide events
  • And much more!

Please feel free toapply if you do not meet 100% of the positional requirements. Forvia Hella isdedicated to the development and future advancement of all of ouremployees.
Even if you do not meet all our requirements, do not hesitate to apply to us, because the further development of our employees is very important to us and opens up a wide range of opportunities for you in our company.
FORVIA HELLA stands for the variety of all employees. Inclusion and diversity are firmly anchored in our company culture. We are continuously looking for new team players and welcome applications from all interested parties, regardless of their ethical and social background, age, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation or identity.
Please send us your application via our career portal, stating your salary requirements and earliest possible starting date, with the reference number req18471.
HELLA Corporate Center USA, Inc.
Eric Spence
Phone: