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Virtual Protocol Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Virtual Validation Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site +1

$115K - $192K/yr

... virtual ECU prototyping solutions to software and control systems engineers within our product ... Familiarity with automotive ECUs, control systems, and communication protocols. * Knowledge of ...

The candidate will work closely with other teams that are responsible for developing the virtual ... Experience with Automotive communication protocols (CAN, CAN-FD, Ethernet, SOMEIP, LIN ...

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Virtual Protocol Engineer information

What is a virtual protocol engineer?

A Virtual Protocol Engineer is a specialist who designs, develops, and manages network protocols and virtualized communication systems. Their work involves ensuring secure and efficient data transmission across virtual networks, often within cloud environments or software-defined infrastructures. They troubleshoot protocol issues, optimize network performance, and may also be involved in creating custom solutions for specific organizational needs. This role requires a strong understanding of networking concepts, virtualization technologies, and various communication protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual protocol engineer?

To thrive as a Virtual Protocol Engineer, you need a strong background in computer networking, software development, and protocol design, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Proficiency with networking tools (such as Wireshark), virtualization platforms (like VMware or Docker), and familiarity with protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, or custom communication protocols are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting virtualized network environments that ensure efficient, secure, and scalable digital communication.

What are common challenges faced by virtual protocol engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Virtual Protocol Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring interoperability between various network protocols and virtualized environments. Troubleshooting latency issues, maintaining security standards, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies are also common. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with industry certifications, collaborating closely with network architects and software developers, and utilizing advanced monitoring tools to proactively identify and resolve issues. Building strong documentation and communication practices within the team is essential for seamless protocol integration and deployment.

What is the difference between Virtual Protocol Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectVirtual Protocol EngineerNetwork Engineer
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CCNA, Cisco certifications
Work EnvironmentRemote, virtual setups, cloud-based systemsOn-site or hybrid network infrastructure
Industry UsageTelecommunications, cloud services, virtual networksIT, enterprise networks, data centers

The Virtual Protocol Engineer focuses on designing, implementing, and troubleshooting virtual network protocols primarily in cloud and virtual environments. In contrast, the Network Engineer manages physical and virtual network infrastructure within organizations. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related industries, but their primary focus and work environments differ, with Virtual Protocol Engineers specializing in virtualized systems and remote setups.

What are the most commonly searched types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Protocol Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What job categories do people searching Virtual Protocol Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Virtual Protocol Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Virtual Protocol Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 45% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 52% Remote job distribution.

Virtual Validation Engineer

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI • On-site, Remote

$115K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description


We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.
In this position...
The engineer in this role will develop and maintain electronic control unit (ECU) simulations at multiple abstraction levels (Level 4 target-native hardware emulation and Level 3 host-native simulations). You will work as a member of a team delivering virtual ECU prototyping solutions to software and control systems engineers within our product development teams. Additionally, you will collaborate with simulation tool vendors and suppliers to resolve issues and implement methodologies for heterogeneous simulation environments.
Responsibilities
What you'll do...
  • Evaluate technologies and methods for integration of simulations and virtual ECU platforms.
  • Troubleshoot virtual ECU hardware and software integration issues.
  • Develop and maintain simulation tools and environments for automotive applications.
  • Develop scripts to automate the building and running of virtual test environments.
  • Assist software development and testing teams with adopting and using virtual ECU environments.
  • Plan out project roadmap and participate in project management decisions.

Qualifications
You'll have...
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in developing simulation or virtualization frameworks, or equivalent experience in system programming (e.g., embedded systems, RTOS, hardware controllers, etc).
  • Strong programming skills in C/C++ and Python or similar scripting language.
  • Experience working in Agile development environments.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and technical writing skills.

Even better, you may have:
  • Experience in developing instruction-level or cycle-accurate simulation tools and environments.
  • Exposure to co-simulation and multi-domain simulation tools, integrating multiple simulators.
  • Familiarity with automotive ECUs, control systems, and communication protocols.
  • Knowledge of hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing methodologies.
  • Experience with containers, cloud, and batch computing platforms.
  • Experience in embedded development and hardware bring-up.
    You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
    As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
    • Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
    • Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
    • Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
    • Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
    • Tuition assistance
    • Established and active employee resource groups
    • Paid time off for individual and team community service
    • A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day
    • Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
    This position is a salary grade 7 and ranges from $99,600-$166,600., This position is a salary grade 8 and ranges from $115,000-$192,900.
    Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
    For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/GSR
    Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
    Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
    We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
    This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week.
    #LI-Hybrid
    #LI-VO1

Ford logo

About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982