Entry Level Automotive Software Engineer Jobs in California

Engineer I - Battery Software
The Engineer I - Battery Software will support the design, development, integration, and validation of battery management system (BMS) application software for electric and hybrid vehicle programs. Under the guidance of senior engineers, this role contributes to software requirements, model-based development, diagnostics, safety mechanisms, calibration, testing, and release documentation while collaborating with systems, hardware, validation, and vehicle teams.

Responsibilities (include, but are not limited to):

• Implement and maintain BMS functions for battery state monitoring, control, protection, diagnostics, and communication based on software requirements.
• Create test cases and execute software unit, integration, bench, HIL, and in-vehicle tests; document results and track issues to closure.
• Support the implementation and verification of software safety mechanisms derived from functional safety requirements.
• Analyze test data and software defects, identify likely root causes, and work with senior engineers and cross-functional partners on corrective actions.
• Support BMS diagnostics and CAN communication development, including signal validation and fault handling.
• Use version-control, issue-tracking, build, flashing, and calibration tools in accordance with team processes.
• Collaborate with battery hardware, vehicle integration, functional safety, and cybersecurity teams.
• Contribute to process improvement, tool development, technical documentation, and team knowledge sharing.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.
  

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Control Systems, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related degree.
• 0-2 years of relevant academic, internship, co-op, or professional experience in embedded software, controls, batteries, electric vehicles, or a related area.
• Foundational knowledge of model-based software development using MATLAB/Simulink.
• Basic understanding of embedded software development, software requirements, debugging, and verification methods.
• Basic knowledge of high-voltage battery systems, Li-ion batteries, or battery management system functions.
• Familiarity with CAN communication protocols and automotive engineering tools.
• Exposure to Model-, Software-, or Hardware-in-the-Loop testing (MIL/SIL/HIL) or equivalent embedded-system test methods.
• Ability to analyze technical data, troubleshoot problems methodically, and document results clearly.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional engineering environment and manage assigned tasks to schedule.
  

Preferred Qualifications (in addition to required):

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering or computer science discipline.
• Internship, co-op, project, or work experience related to BMS, EV/HEV controls, embedded control software, or production-intent automotive development.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink model development, code generation, scripting, or test automation.
• Familiarity with functional safety concepts and ISO 26262.
• Familiarity with automotive cybersecurity concepts, ISO 21434, or UNECE R155.
• Knowledge of AUTOSAR software architecture and methodology.
• Knowledge of automotive diagnostics, including OBD-II and UDS.
• Experience with CAN communication tools such as Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, or Kvaser.
• Exposure to software compiling, flashing, calibration, configuration management, or Agile software development.
  

Physical Requirements:

Note: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee should have the:

• Ability to frequently use or operate a computer, mouse and/or other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
• Ability to frequently use hand(s) for repetitive actions (grasping and fine manipulation)
• Ability to frequently walk or move - to regularly move about inside the office
• Ability to frequently see or detect, identify, recognize, or assess surroundings while in the office
• Ability to occasionally bend, kneel, crouch, turn, and stoop.
• Ability to frequently sit or be stationary for extended continuous periods of time.
• Ability to stand for occasional periods of time.
• Ability to safely climb ladders, stairs, and ramps occasionally
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or push/pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly most of the day
• Driving company vehicles occasionally
• Travel up to 25%
  

Work EnvironmentThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those employee encounters while performing their job in an indoor office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may spend approximately 60% (excluding breaks and meal periods) of time in an office environment and 40% of the time in the non-office setting (garage and/or laboratory setting). When working in the non-office setting, it requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including (but not limited to) safety shoes (unless staying outside of the working areas), bump caps, and/or safety goggles frequently.

Total Rewards (Benefits, Perks & Compensation)

Benefits & Perks:

In addition to our competitive compensation, you will also be eligible for the following at Karma:

• Medical Plan choices include HMO, PPO & HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan)
• Dental & Vision Plans
• Health Savings Account & Flexible Spending Account
• Employee Health & Well-Being Program Events
• Company Paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance
• 401(k) with Employer Match
• Relocation Assistance (if applicable)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Sick Time, Vacation time and Personal Floaters
• Paid Holidays including Company's Annual Year End Shutdown
• Karma Cares Program (Quarterly Lunch)
• Work life Balance (Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule)
• Employee Driving Program
• Pre-taxed Commuter Benefits & much more!

Compensation:

$85,000 - $95,000 /annual salary. Compensation will vary DOE.

At Karma, our base pay is one part of our total rewards package.

Compensation offered may vary on multiple factors, including market location, education, skills and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position being offered.

Karma Automotive, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity (EEO) employer.We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender identity and expression, color, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), national origin/ancestry, religion, military/veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status, intersectionality or any other characteristic and group protected by applicable law. Karma Automotive, Inc complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure equal access to all qualified individuals with a physical or mental disability.Valid driver's license may be required based on essential duties.