Lead Automotive Software Architect

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first role

Competitive salary and benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Automotive Software Architect for Centurion, Gauteng. You will define the software architecture for in-vehicle platforms, including ADAS, infotainment, and ECU software, guiding a team of engineers toward scalable, secure solutions.

You will drive AUTOSAR, MISRA C/C++, RTOS, and embedded Linux strategies, collaborate with hardware and product teams, and uphold ISO 26262 safety standards in a fast-paced, remote-first environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a relevant engineering field.
• 10+ years in software development; 5+ years in lead/architectural roles in the automotive industry.
• Proven experience in defining and implementing complex embedded software architectures for automotive applications.
• Deep understanding of AUTOSAR, RTOS, and embedded Linux.
• Strong leadership and communication skills; eligible to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Define and document the overall software architecture for automotive ECUs and platforms.
• Lead the design and development of software components for infotainment, ADAS, connectivity, and powertrain control systems.
• Establish software development processes, coding standards, and best practices (AUTOSAR, MISRA C/C++, ISO 26262).
• Collaborate with hardware engineers, system engineers, and product managers to define software requirements and integration strategies.
• Mentor and guide the software engineering team, fostering innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the software development lifecycle from requirements to deployment and testing.
• Conduct architectural and code reviews to ensure adherence to design principles and quality standards.
• Evaluate and select technologies, tools, and frameworks for automotive software development.
• Drive adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency and performance.
• Represent the software architecture team in technical discussions within Centurion.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

C/C++ programming

Embedded systems

Education

Master's or PhD in Computer Science / Electrical Engineering / Automotive Engineering

Tools

AUTOSAR

MISRA C/C++

ISO 26262

RTOS

Embedded Linux

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the automotive industry, is seeking a visionary Lead Automotive Software Architect to spearhead the design and development of advanced in-vehicle software systems. This pivotal role, based in Centurion, Gauteng, will involve defining the software architecture for next-generation automotive platforms, focusing on areas such as autonomous driving, connected car services, and human-machine interfaces (HMI). You will guide a team of talented software engineers, ensuring the development of robust, scalable, and secure software solutions that meet the highest industry standards. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in automotive software development, a deep understanding of embedded systems, and a passion for innovation. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of automotive technology from Centurion, Gauteng, a hub of technological advancement. You will work on exciting projects that redefine the driving experience and contribute to the safety and convenience of millions of users. We are looking for a leader who can inspire and drive technical excellence within a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and document the overall software architecture for automotive ECUs and platforms, ensuring alignment with system requirements and business goals.
• Lead the design and development of software components for infotainment, ADAS, connectivity, and powertrain control systems.
• Establish software development processes, coding standards, and best practices, including those related to AUTOSAR, MISRA C/C++, and ISO 26262.
• Collaborate closely with hardware engineers, system engineers, and product managers to define software requirements and system integration strategies.
• Mentor and guide the software engineering team, fostering a culture of innovation, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the software development lifecycle, from requirements gathering and design to implementation, testing, and deployment.
• Conduct architectural reviews and code reviews to ensure adherence to design principles and quality standards.
• Evaluate and select appropriate technologies, tools, and frameworks for automotive software development.
• Drive the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance software efficiency and performance.
• Represent the software architecture team in technical discussions and cross-functional meetings within Centurion.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in software development, with at least 5 years in a lead or architectural role within the automotive industry.
• Proven experience in defining and implementing complex embedded software architectures for automotive applications.
• Deep understanding of AUTOSAR, RTOS, and embedded Linux.
• Expertise in C/C++ programming languages and software design patterns.
• Strong knowledge of automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, Ethernet, LIN) and cybersecurity principles.
• Experience with safety-critical systems development (ISO 26262).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and lead engineering teams effectively.
• Experience with agile development methodologies.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions, and significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership.
• Our client is committed to innovation and provides a challenging yet rewarding work environment in Centurion, Gauteng.
• You will have the chance to work on cutting-edge automotive technologies and make a tangible impact on the future of mobility.
• We offer a collaborative culture that encourages knowledge sharing and professional development.
• This is a remote-first role, allowing for flexibility while maintaining a strong connection with the team.