Lead Automotive Software Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Career growth

Health insurance

Home office support

Paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Automotive Software Engineer to drive development of next-generation vehicle software. This fully remote role welcomes talent from George, Western Cape, or beyond, offering autonomy while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in embedded software, 5+ in automotive, and strong C/C++ with experience in RTOS, AUTOSAR, and ISO 26262. Join a visionary team shaping mobility technology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of embedded software development experience, 5+ years in automotive domain.
• Proven technical leadership or lead engineer experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of embedded automotive software (RTOS, safety-critical).
• Architect robust software for infotainment, ADAS, powertrain and vehicle networking.
• Mentor engineers in a remote setting and enforce coding standards and testing.
• Collaborate with hardware, systems, and product teams to translate requirements into specs.
• Develop unit, integration, and system tests; resolve defects; stay updated on AUTOSAR/ISO 26262.

Skills

Embedded software

C/C++

RTOS

Automotive software

AUTOSAR

ISO 26262

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Diagnostics

Git & build systems

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Computer Science / Electrical Engineering

Tools

CAN / Automotive Ethernet

QNX / VxWorks / FreeRTOS

Embedded Linux

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in automotive technology, is looking for an exceptional Lead Automotive Software Engineer to spearhead the development of next-generation vehicle software solutions. This role is based entirely remotely, offering a unique opportunity for top talent to contribute from anywhere in George, Western Cape , or beyond. You will be instrumental in designing, developing, and implementing complex software architectures that power cutting-edge automotive features, from infotainment systems to advanced driver-assistance (ADAS) and vehicle dynamics control. We are seeking a visionary leader with a proven track record in automotive software development, strong architectural design skills, and a passion for innovation. As a remote-first employee, you'll have the autonomy to shape your work environment while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams through digital platforms. Your expertise will drive the future of automotive software, ensuring our client remains at the forefront of the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of embedded software for automotive applications, focusing on real-time operating systems (RTOS) and safety-critical systems.
• Architect robust and scalable software solutions for areas such as infotainment, connectivity, ADAS, powertrain control, and vehicle networking (CAN, LIN, Ethernet).
• Mentor and guide a team of software engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance development culture in a remote setting.
• Define and enforce coding standards, best practices, and testing methodologies to ensure software quality, reliability, and maintainability.
• Collaborate closely with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and product managers to translate requirements into technical specifications.
• Develop and execute comprehensive unit, integration, and system tests for software components and systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex software defects identified during development, testing, or in production.
• Stay abreast of emerging automotive software technologies, industry standards (e.g., AUTOSAR, ISO 26262), and competitive trends.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of development processes and tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in embedded software development, with at least 5 years in the automotive industry.
• Proven experience in a technical leadership or lead engineer role, managing software development projects.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming languages and experience with embedded systems development.
• In-depth knowledge of automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, Automotive Ethernet) and diagnostic protocols (e.g., UDS).
• Experience with RTOS (e.g., QNX, VxWorks, FreeRTOS) and embedded Linux.
• Familiarity with automotive software development processes and standards (e.g., AUTOSAR, ISO 26262 functional safety).
• Experience with software version control systems (e.g., Git) and build systems.
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, effective for remote collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and deliver results in a remote work environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Flexible working hours and a fully remote work arrangement.
• Access to state-of-the-art development tools and technologies.
• Opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and attending industry conferences.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• Be part of a transformative company shaping the future of mobility.
• Support for home office setup and continuous connectivity.