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Senior Software Engineer Startup Jobs in Michigan

Sr Software Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$120K - $158K/yr

Your Profile as the Senior Software Engineer- Robotics & Innovation: * Bachelors of Science (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or ...

Senior Defense Software Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

The Defense Senior Software Engineer is accountable for the development of software for both internal Roush projects and external customers. The role will perform requirements gathering, software ...

Senior Software Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to act as a client-facing full stack engineer, designing and delivering scalable software solutions while mentoring a global team of engineers.

Senior Software Engineer - Platform

Warren, MI · On-site

$115K - $151K/yr

General Motors is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to support, design, and improve delivery of enterprise applications, integrations, and intelligent platform capabilities across the Global ...

Senior Software Engineer - Platform

Warren, MI · On-site

$115K - $151K/yr

General Motors is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to support, design, and improve delivery of enterprise applications, integrations, and intelligent platform capabilities across the Global ...

Sr. Software Engineer

Okemos, MI · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

As a Sr. Software Engineer, you will shape and improve the experience of key Vertafore customers. You will work cross-functionally across Vertafore, including Customer Support, Account Management ...

Sr. Software Engineer

Okemos, MI

$111K - $147K/yr

As a Sr. Software Engineer, you will shape and improve the experience of key Vertafore customers. You will work cross-functionally across Vertafore, including Customer Support, Account Management ...

Sr. Software Engineer

Okemos, MI · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

As a Sr. Software Engineer, you will shape and improve the experience of key Vertafore customers. You will work cross-functionally across Vertafore, including Customer Support, Account Management ...

Senior Software Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$115K - $151K/yr

The OS Safety and Services team is seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer to join our team to work on high-compute System-on-Chip (SoC) platforms. The ideal candidate will have strong ...

Senior Software Engineer

Warren, MI

$115K - $151K/yr

The OS Safety and Services team is seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer to join our team to work on high-compute System-on-Chip (SoC) platforms. The ideal candidate will have ...

Senior Software Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI

$117K - $155K/yr

As a senior software engineer for SWIVEL, you will take on a prominent role within our Agile delivery teams. You will have the opportunity to build awesome technology to solve complex problems as ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Software Engineer Startup information

See Michigan salary details

$65.8K

$124.9K

$167.3K

How much do senior software engineer startup jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior software engineer startup in Michigan is $124,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,800.00 and $140,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some unique challenges Senior Software Engineers face when working at a startup compared to a larger company?

Senior Software Engineers at startups often navigate a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment where priorities can shift quickly. Unlike at larger organizations with established processes and specialized teams, startup engineers may wear multiple hats, handling everything from architecture decisions to hands-on coding and even DevOps tasks. This role typically requires a high degree of autonomy and the ability to make impactful technical decisions with limited resources. The collaborative nature means frequent interaction with product managers, designers, and often even company leadership, creating opportunities for broad influence but also demanding strong communication and adaptability.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or companies, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in tech startups or large technology firms in competitive markets.

Are senior software engineers still in demand?

Senior software engineers remain in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation and the need for experienced developers skilled in programming languages, cloud platforms, and software architecture. Companies across various industries seek senior engineers to lead projects, improve systems, and mentor junior staff, making this a stable and valuable role in the tech industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Software Engineer at a startup, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Software Engineer at a startup, you need advanced programming abilities, architectural design experience, and a solid understanding of software development lifecycles, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with modern frameworks, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), version control systems (such as Git), and agile methodologies is essential, with certifications in relevant technologies being advantageous. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and effective communication skills help you navigate the dynamic startup environment and mentor junior team members. These skills are crucial to rapidly building scalable solutions, driving innovation, and supporting business growth in a fast-paced and often ambiguous setting.

What is the difference between Senior Software Engineer Startup vs Software Engineer Startup?

AspectSenior Software Engineer StartupSoftware Engineer Startup
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in CS or related field, 3+ years experienceBachelor's in CS or related field, 0-2 years experience
Work EnvironmentFast-paced startup, leadership responsibilities, mentorshipCollaborative team, learning-focused, entry-level to mid-level tasks
Employer & Industry UsageTech startups, scale-ups, innovative projectsEarly-stage startups, product development teams
Common Search & ComparisonHigher responsibility, technical expertise, leadershipLearning opportunities, foundational skills, growth potential

The main difference between a Senior Software Engineer Startup and a Software Engineer Startup lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Software Engineers typically have more experience, take on mentorship roles, and handle complex projects, while Software Engineers are often in entry to mid-level positions focused on skill development and supporting team tasks.

What does a Senior Software Engineer do at a startup?

A Senior Software Engineer at a startup is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the core software products or services. They often take on a broad range of tasks, including coding, code reviews, system architecture, and mentoring junior team members. In a startup environment, they may also contribute to product decisions, help set technical direction, and quickly adapt to changing priorities. Their role is critical in building scalable, reliable solutions while fostering innovation and collaboration within a small, fast-paced team.

Can you make $500,000 as a software engineer?

Senior software engineers at startups can potentially earn $500,000 annually through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and equity, especially in high-growth companies or with significant stock options. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in competitive markets or successful startups with lucrative equity packages.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Software Engineers at successful startups or large tech companies can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High compensation typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, and equity participation in the company.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Startup jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Software Engineer Startup jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Software Engineer Startup jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Software Engineer Startup jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Senior Software Engineer Startup jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Senior Software Engineer Startup job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Software Engineer Startup job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,892 per year, or $60 per hour.

Sr Software Engineer

ZF Group

Farmington Hills, MI • On-site

$120K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Req ID 88363 | Gbl Elec HQ - Farmington Hills, United States ZF Active Safety and Electronics US LLC
About the Position
The Advanced Robotics and Innovation Engineer plays a pivotal role in shaping ZF's next generation of edge-connected driver assistance and automated driving technologies. The ideal candidate combines strong theoretical foundations in probabilistic robotics and classical perception techniques, such as Kalman filtering and sensor fusion, with practical implementation skills in modern C++. This position is part of ZF's ADAS & HPC business, which is entering an exciting new phase of growth and transformation within the advanced automotive technology space. The business unit is planned for divestiture, creating a unique opportunity to help shape the future of next-generation driver assistance and high-performance computing technologies.
What you can look forward to as the Advanced Robotics and Innovation Engineer:
  • Designing and developing new driver assistance functions, spanning from advanced low-speed parking systems all the way through Level 3 hands-free autonomous driving capabilities on highways and complex urban environments.
  • Applying deep interdisciplinary expertise across computer science, applied mathematics, and controls and estimation theory to create robust, high-performance solutions that push the boundaries of what is possible in production vehicles.
  • Collaborating effectively with suppliers and cross-functional teams.

Your Profile as the Senior Software Engineer- Robotics & Innovation:
  • Bachelors of Science (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field.
  • 6+ years experience developing driver assistance systems or related technologies.
  • High competency in developing modern object oriented C++ applications (C++14 or later).
  • Prior experience working in a modern CI and DevOps software development framework.
  • A general understanding of gitflow software development practices
  • A working level knowledge of probabilistic robotics and related concepts.

What We Offer:
  • A supportive collaborative team environment
  • Annual Incentive Plan
  • Paid Vacation
  • Personal Time
  • 401k Plan
  • Health Care Benefits
  • Paid Holidays
  • A strong diversity culture
  • Supportive Employee Groups and community outreach activities

Be part of our ZF team as Sr Software Engineer - Robotics & Innovation and apply now!
Contact
Gabriela Palacio
DIVERSITY COMMITMENT:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are more than just words for us. They are at the core of the ZF Way that propels our team members towards their utmost success. We strive to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is a natural reflex. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that every member of ZF can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape next generation mobility, safety, sustainability and social justice.
With four generations across 118 nationalities in 41 countries, ZF combines a unique variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. Together, we solve problems, drive innovation and shape next generation mobility.
Our company is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity and to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment with us and are in need of accommodation or special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please contact us. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. ZF is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran
What does DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) mean for ZF as a company?
At ZF, we continuously strive to build and maintain a culture where inclusiveness is lived and diversity is valued. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that all our employees can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this vision in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape the future of mobility.
Find out how we work at ZF: