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Principal Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Firmware/Embedded Software Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$94K - $129K/yr

The role of Road Ready Firmware/Embedded Software Engineer will support the growth of the Road Ready product. Specific duties and responsibilities include: * Design and implement software of embedded ...

Embedded Controls Software Engineer

Allen Park, MI · On-site

$119K - $157K/yr

As an Embedded Controls Software Engineer, you will be a critical contributor to the design, development, and validation of advanced embedded control software for next-generation automotive systems.

Embedded Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$102K - $192K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer - positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, Michigan). Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the aforementioned ...

Software Engineer III

Novi, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Software Engineer III Indirect Auburn, MI, US 5 days ago Requisition ID: 1547 HL Mando America ... Responsible for embedded software development for automotive products such as Electric Power ...

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Showing results 41-60

Principal Embedded Software Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$119.3K

$160.7K

$185.6K

How much do principal embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal embedded software engineer in Detroit, MI is $160,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,500.00 and $174,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Embedded Software Engineer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related; extensive experienceBachelor's in relevant field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in R&D teams, system architecture, and designDevelopment, coding, testing embedded systems
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, automotive, aerospace, industrial automationSimilar industries, often as a team member
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsEntry to mid-level job distinctions

The Principal Embedded Software Engineer typically holds a senior leadership role with extensive experience, focusing on system architecture and strategic development. In contrast, an Embedded Software Engineer is more involved in coding and testing at an entry or mid-level. Both roles are vital in embedded systems development but differ in scope, responsibility, and experience requirements.

What does a principal embedded software engineer do?

A Principal Embedded Software Engineer is a senior-level professional who designs, develops, and oversees software that runs on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers and specialized hardware devices. They are responsible for leading software architecture decisions, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the embedded software. Their work often involves close collaboration with hardware engineers and cross-functional teams to deliver integrated solutions. Principal Embedded Software Engineers also play a key role in setting technical standards and driving innovation within their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal embedded software engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Embedded Software Engineer, you need advanced expertise in embedded systems programming, real-time operating systems, and a strong background in computer engineering or related fields, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with technical tools like C/C++, embedded Linux, microcontroller development environments, and certifications such as Certified Embedded Systems Engineer are typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills to guide teams and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully architecting complex embedded solutions and driving innovation in product development.

How does a principal embedded software engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during product development?

As a Principal Embedded Software Engineer, you will frequently work alongside hardware engineers, system architects, and product managers to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components. You may lead technical discussions, provide guidance on system constraints, and participate in design reviews to align on specifications and timelines. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as you'll be responsible for translating product requirements into reliable embedded solutions while mentoring junior engineers and ensuring best practices across the team.
What job categories do people searching Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Infographic showing various Principal Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 74% Full Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,730 per year, or $77.3 per hour.

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Microcontrollers

General Motors

Milford, MI • On-site

$109K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 306 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description
Work Arrangement:
Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to Milford, Michigan three times per week, at minimum.
Our Mission:
At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We're turning today's impossible into tomorrow's standard -from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.
Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.
The Role:
In-House HWIO (Hardware Input/Output) Team is part of the Mechatronics Software Platform organization, driving GM's Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) strategy. We develop and test low-level embedded software that is portable and scalable across multiple automotive applications. As a member of the HWIO Engineering group, you'll work with cutting-edge systems and designs, leveraging both AUTOSAR MCAL configuration tools and hand-coding in C. A software developer in the HWIO team will be responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and testing the low-level hardware input/output (HWIO) software for various microcontrollers. This means creating the best software solution with the understanding of requirements, microcontroller specification, and GM coding standard. The developer will also make sure the solution is tested robustly by creating testing strategies and documenting the design.
We are seeking a skilled Senior Embedded Software Developer to design, develop, implement, and test low-level HWIO software for various microcontrollers. In this role, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams, create robust testing strategies, and ensure compliance with GM's coding standards.
What You'll Do:
  • Design, develop, and test low-level embedded software for functionalities such as RTOS, Memory, Fault Detection, Power Management, LIN, DMA, PWM, Discrete I/O, and Analog I/O.
  • Utilize MCAL configuration tools or hand-code software solutions.
  • Define and execute testing strategies to verify compliance with technical requirements.
  • Perform independent code reviews and provide constructive feedback.
  • Collaborate with teams across hardware, calibration, and requirements groups.
  • Troubleshoot and solve complex issues with strong analytical skills.
  • Document designs, test cases, and results thoroughly.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in embedded software development (Embedded C).
  • Expertise in AUTOSAR MCAL configuration and Complex Driver development.
  • Hands-on experience with microcontrollers (ARM, PowerPC, Renesas).
  • Proficiency with RTOS for multi-core systems.
  • Strong understanding of schematics and basic electrical circuits.
  • Experience with root cause analysis involving integrated basic and application software.
  • Familiarity with debugging tools (Lauterbach, ETAS INCA, CANalyzer) and lab equipment (oscilloscopes).
  • Ability to work independently under tight schedules.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with others.

What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in embedded software development (Embedded C)
  • Low level SW experience in these core / micro:
    ARM Cortex-R52 Core
    ARM Cortex-M7 Core
    NXP S32Kxx micro
  • Knowledge of vehicle electrical systems.

Benefits:
GM offers a variety of health and wellbeing benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.
Relocation:
This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, emailus or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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About General Motors

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General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908