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Car Programmer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The engineer will be proficient in HVAC equipment operation, control system principles ... car expenses, and earn sales incentives based on revenue or utilization depending on the terms of ...

Car Allowance / Mileage Reimbursement * Preferred Certifications: Tridium Niagara N4 or Distech ... Work closely with engineering staff and field technicians throughout startup and commissioning ...

Staff Automation Engineer

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$87K - $110K/yr

How You'll Help Us Connect the World As a Staff Mechanical Automation Engineer, you will be part of our Automation Team responsible for designing and building custom automation equipment for ...

How You'll Help Us Connect the World As a Staff Mechanical Automation Engineer, you will be part of our Automation Team responsible for designing and building custom automation equipment for ...

Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes ... The Senior Platform Engineer - Endpoint defines and operates the enterprise endpoint management ...

Senior Endpoint Platform Engineer

Dayton, MN

$110K - $151K/yr

Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes ... The Senior Platform Engineer - Endpoint defines and operates the enterprise endpoint management ...

Senior Endpoint Platform Engineer

Dayton, MN · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes ... The Senior Platform Engineer - Endpoint defines and operates the enterprise endpoint management ...

As a Sr. Supplier Development Engineer, you will strengthen the performance and reliability of our ... Ensure timely and effective execution of Root Cause Analysis and Corrective/Preventive Actions (CAR ...

Manufacturing Engineer III

Anoka, MN

$74K - $95K/yr

Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes ... Communication liaison between engineering, production, marketing, purchasing, etc., and cell leader

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Car Programmer information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$38

$67

How much do car programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for car programmer in Minnesota is $38.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.19 and $50.38 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 Minnesota are hiring for Car Programmer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Car Programmer job openings:
Associate Controls Engineer

Associate Controls Engineer

Vertiv Co

Minneapolis, MN

$82K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Vertiv rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary

Vertiv is hiring an Associate Controls Engineer in Minneapolis, MN to direct, design, develop, test and resolve issues with control systems and components for HVAC equipment operation. Discipline focuses on HVAC equipment operation utilizing Direct Digital Control (DDC) Systems and tools provided by the chosen DDC hardware and software supplier. The engineer will be proficient in HVAC equipment operation, control system principles, implementation, operational programming, HMI programming, Building Management System (BMS) integration including ancillary input and output devices.

The engineer is responsible for seeing a control system project/order through the design, release to production, manufacturing, testing and field support cycles. May interact with other groups such as marketing, application engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, procurement, manufacturing, end of line testing, and service to ensure the equipment has the right feature set, meets the cost & schedule targets and can be manufactured.

This role actively works with all departments throughout the life cycle of projects. ETO projects demand being responsive to customer required functions/features with short design/development lead times. Seamless involvement is required starting at the project submission process, into manufacturing, factory testing, site commissioning and service support. The ideal candidate can cover all aspects of the job description; however, most candidates often have an affinity to specific activities. This division is acceptable, depending on the rest of the teams talents.

Responsibilities:

  • Evaluate specifying engineer HVAC control design specifications and then define/quote solutions.
  • Create documentation for project submittals including: Sequence of Operations (SOO), Piping and Instrumentation (P&I) diagrams, Human Machine Interface (HMI) Guides, Building Management System (BMS) integration tables and guides.
  • Create documentation for production including: Controller IO lists, sensor and other device details/defaults
  • Create operational code, HMI code, BMS interface code and test solutions.
  • Review electrical prints for correct connection to controller and ancillary devices.
  • Create final documentation for equipment O&M including: SOO, HMI Guide, BMS integration details and device O&M documents.
  • Support factory and field integration, testing, commissioning and troubleshooting.

Requirements:

  • BSME or BSEE or related degree
  • At least 1 year experience
  • Experience with HVAC Equipment: Air Handling, Hydronics, Refrigeration; solving system technical issues during design, production and field desired
  • Experience with DDC or PLC System hardware and ancillary devices; network protocols such as Modbus; common network architecture such as EIA-485, TCP/IP and Ethernet

The anticipated salary range for this role in the Minnesota locality is between $82,754 to $103,502 per year. Certain roles are eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, annual bonus and stock. These awards are allocated based on individual performance and are role based. In addition, certain roles also have the opportunity to receive and/or participate in profit sharing, allowances, travel and/or car expenses, and earn sales incentives based on revenue or utilization depending on the terms of the employee's role and individual offer details. The role is eligible to participate in a comprehensive and competitive benefits program, including medical, dental, vision, disability, PTO, holiday pay, and 401k. Additional details about total compensation and benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

The successful candidate will embrace Vertiv's Core Principals & Behaviors to help execute our Strategic Priorities. 

OUR CORE PRINCIPALSSafety.  Integrity.  Respect.  Teamwork.  Diversity & Inclusion.

OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

  Customer Focus

  Operational Excellence

  High-Performance Culture

  Innovation

  Financial Strength

OUR BEHAVIORS

  Own It

  Act With Urgency

  Foster a Customer-First Mindset

  Think Big and Execute

  Lead by Example

  Drive Continuous Improvement

  Learn and Seek Out Development

About Vertiv

Vertiv is a $8.0 billion global critical infrastructure and data center technology company.  We ensure customers' vital applications run continuously by bringing together hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services.  Our portfolio includes power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions and services that extends from the cloud to the edge of the network. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, USA, Vertiv employs around 20,000 people and does business in more than 130 countries. Visit Vertiv.com to learn more.    

Work Authorization

No calls or agencies please. Vertiv will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Vertiv is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We promote equal opportunities for all with respect to hiring, terms of employment, mobility, training, compensation, and occupational health, without discrimination as to age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression (including transgender status or sexual stereotypes), genetic information, citizenship status, national origin, protected veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by sending an email to help.join@vertiv.com.

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