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Linker Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Linker information

See Michigan salary details

$46.6K

$101.8K

$161.2K

How much do linker jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for linker in Michigan is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,300.00 and $110,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Linker vs Assembler?

AspectLinkerAssembler
Primary RoleCombines object files into a single executableConverts assembly language into machine code
Required SkillsKnowledge of linking process, file formats, and programmingUnderstanding of assembly language and hardware architecture
Work EnvironmentSoftware development, build processesLow-level programming, embedded systems
Common UsageFinal step in software compilationWriting performance-critical code

The main difference between a Linker and an Assembler is their role in software development. An Assembler translates assembly language into machine code, while a Linker combines multiple object files into a single executable. Both are essential in the software build process but serve distinct functions at different stages.

What are some common challenges linkers face when coordinating between production teams and software developers?

Linkers often act as intermediaries, ensuring that all components of a software build process are correctly integrated. A key challenge is managing communication across teams with different technical backgrounds, which can lead to misunderstandings about requirements or timelines. Additionally, Linkers must stay organized to track dependencies and resolve conflicts efficiently, especially when multiple updates happen simultaneously. Strong collaboration skills and attention to detail are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth project delivery.

What is a linker?

Linkers are specialized software tools used in computer programming to combine various pieces of code and data into a single executable program. They take object files generated by compilers and resolve references between them, connecting code and libraries as needed. Linkers can handle static linking, where code is combined at compile time, or dynamic linking, where code is linked at runtime. This process is essential for creating functional applications from modular code components.

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

To thrive as a Linker (typically referring to a software linker), you need strong knowledge of programming languages, computer architecture, and compiler design, usually supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with build systems, version control tools like Git, and scripting languages is essential, along with experience using linker tools such as GNU ld or Microsoft Link. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing and resolving integration issues. These skills are vital for ensuring that software components are correctly combined, dependencies are managed, and applications run efficiently and reliably.
Infographic showing various Linker job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software & DevOps Engineer - Powertrain

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Embedded Software & DevOps Engineer to join our automotive software team focused on powertrain systems. In this role, you will develop safety-critical embedded application software while supporting compiler and toolchain evaluation, configuration, and optimization across multiple processor architectures. You will collaborate across engineering teams to deliver high-quality, efficient, and scalable software solutions throughout the full development lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain embedded C/C++ software for automotive powertrain applications
  • Support compiler/toolchain evaluation, configuration, optimization, and maintenance
  • Participate in the full software development lifecycle including requirements, design, coding, testing, and integration
  • Analyze compiler optimizations, generated assembly code, linker scripts, and build outputs
  • Build and maintain CI/CD pipelines and automation frameworks for embedded software
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure software quality, performance, and compliance
  • Perform debugging, validation, and integration using industry-standard tools

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in embedded software development, compiler/toolchain engineering, DevOps, or related automotive software domains.
  • Strong proficiency in embedded C and C++, including both hand-coded and auto-generated software.
  • Experience with embedded software development for automotive systems, including real-time operating systems (RTOS) and bare-metal programming.
  • Expertise with compiler technologies, cross-compilation environments, and embedded software toolchains.
  • Strong understanding of:
    • Compiler optimizations and compiler flags
    • Generated assembly code analysis
    • Linker scripts and map files
    • Build systems and automation frameworks
  • Experience with automotive-grade microcontrollers/processors such as ARM Cortex-R/M, Infineon AURIX, NXP S32, PowerPC, RISC-V, or TriCore.
  • Familiarity with AUTOSAR software development, including software component configuration, code generation, and integration.
  • Hands-on experience with model-based development tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, TargetLink, and Embedded Coder.
  • Experience with software debugging and validation tools such as Trace32, dSPACE, Vector tools, or equivalent HIL systems.
  • Working knowledge of automotive communication protocols such as CAN, LIN, and UDS.
  • Familiarity with static code analysis and coding standard compliance tools such as Coverity, Polyspace, and MISRA C/C++.
  • Experience with build systems and scripting tools such as CMake, Make, SCons, Bazel, Python, Bash, Shell scripting, and Makefiles.
  • Experience using version control and source code management tools such as Git/GitHub, SVN, RTC, Accurev, PVCS, TFS, or PTC.
  • Knowledge of Linux/Unix and Windows development environments.
  • Understanding of CI/CD pipelines, automation, and DevOps practices using tools such as Jenkins, TeamCity, CircleCI, Zuul, Artifactory, or Nexus.
  • Familiarity with Agile software development methodologies and workflow management tools such as Jira or RTC.
  • Strong analytical, debugging, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.

Technical Skills:
  • Programming Languages: C, C++, Python, Java, Bash, Shell scripting
  • Embedded Development: AUTOSAR, RTOS, bare-metal systems, model-based development
  • Automotive Tools: System Desk, ETAS ISOLAR, MXAM, BTC, Trace32, dSPACE, Vector
  • CI/CD & DevOps: Jenkins, TeamCity, CircleCI, Zuul
  • SCM Tools: Git, SVN, RTC, TFS, Accurev, PVCS
  • Cloud & Infrastructure: Azure, AWS, GCP, Docker, Kubernetes
  • Configuration Management: Ansible, Puppet, Chef
  • Monitoring Tools: Grafana, Nagios
  • Operating Systems: Linux, Unix, Windows

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong understanding of ISO 26262 and safety-critical automotive software development processes.
  • Experience with tool qualification and certification for automotive software toolchains.
  • Knowledge of ASPICE, AUTOSAR architecture, and MISRA C/C++ standards.
  • Experience with virtualization technologies and virtualized software development/testing environments.
  • Familiarity with application software diagnostics, calibration, and performance optimization.
  • Experience with automated testing frameworks and continuous integration infrastructure for embedded systems.
  • Exposure to cloud-native development workflows and containerized build/test environments.
  • Experience designing scalable data processing or software automation solutions.
  • Demonstrated leadership, mentoring, or cross-functional technical coordination experience.

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