Automotive Software Architect

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Training and certifications

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Automotive Software Architect for a role in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will define the software infrastructure for next-gen in-vehicle systems, including infotainment, ADAS, and connected services.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in automotive embedded software, with expertise in embedded C/C++, RTOS, AUTOSAR, and security. Collaboration with hardware and systems engineers is essential for robust, scalable designs.

Qualifications

• Masters-level degree in a relevant field is required.
• Deep knowledge of embedded software for automotive systems.
• Experience with RTOS, AUTOSAR, and security practices.

Responsibilities

• Define and document the overall software architecture for automotive ECUs and in-vehicle networks.
• Design scalable, high-performance software solutions for infotainment, ADAS, telematics, and powertrain control.
• Select software patterns, frameworks, and technologies to meet project needs and future scalability.
• Collaborate with hardware, system, and application teams for seamless integration.
• Develop software requirements, use cases, and high-level design docs.
• Evaluate RTOS and middleware suitable for automotive use cases.
• Ensure ISO 26262 compliance and cybersecurity best practices throughout the lifecycle.
• Lead architectural reviews and mentor junior engineers.
• Stay updated on AUTOSAR, DDS, and cybersecurity trends.

Skills

Embedded C/C++

RTOS

Automotive protocols

AUTOSAR

SysML/UML

ISO 26262

Cybersecurity

Agile/Scrum

Embedded Linux

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in automotive technology, is looking for an experienced Automotive Software Architect to join their innovative team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is central to defining the software infrastructure for next-generation in-vehicle systems, including infotainment, autonomous driving features, and connected car services. You will be responsible for designing robust, scalable, and secure software architectures that meet the complex demands of the modern automotive landscape. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of embedded systems, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and automotive communication protocols. Working in Richards Bay, you will collaborate with a talented group of engineers to translate intricate requirements into elegant and efficient software solutions, ensuring our client remains at the cutting edge of automotive innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and document the overall software architecture for automotive electronic control units (ECUs) and in-vehicle networks.
• Design scalable, high-performance software solutions for areas such as infotainment, ADAS, telematics, and powertrain control.
• Select appropriate software patterns, frameworks, and technologies to meet project requirements and future scalability needs.
• Collaborate closely with hardware engineers, system engineers, and application developers to ensure seamless integration of software components.
• Develop software requirements specifications, use cases, and high-level design documents.
• Evaluate and select RTOS and middleware solutions suitable for automotive applications.
• Ensure adherence to automotive safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262) and security best practices throughout the software development lifecycle.
• Conduct architectural reviews and provide technical guidance to software development teams.
• Mentor junior software engineers and contribute to the team's technical growth.
• Stay current with emerging trends and technologies in automotive software, including AUTOSAR, DDS, and cybersecurity.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in software development, with at least 5 years focused on automotive embedded systems.
• Proven experience in defining and designing complex software architectures for automotive applications.
• In-depth knowledge of embedded C/C++, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and embedded Linux.
• Strong understanding of automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Automotive Ethernet, SOME/IP).
• Familiarity with AUTOSAR standards and architectures.
• Experience with software modeling tools and methodologies (e.g., UML, SysML).
• Knowledge of automotive functional safety (ISO 26262) and cybersecurity principles is essential.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with Agile/Scrum development processes in an automotive context.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a retirement savings plan. Opportunities for professional growth include extensive training, attendance at industry conferences, and support for advanced certifications. This role provides the chance to work on innovative, industry-leading projects within a collaborative and stimulating environment in Richards Bay. We are committed to fostering a positive work-life balance and offer generous paid time off. Our client also provides access to cutting-edge technology and tools, ensuring you have the resources needed to excel. Career progression opportunities are significant within our expanding organization.