Senior Automotive Software Developer - Embedded Systems

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Remote; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Career development

Fully remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Software Developer with expertise in embedded systems. This fully remote role involves designing, developing, and validating embedded software for automotive ECUs using C and C++, with a focus on real-time performance and safety.

You will work across powertrain, body electronics, and ADAS domains, evaluate RTOS platforms (AUTOSAR, QNX, FreeRTOS), integrate hardware, and collaborate with distributed teams to meet ISO26262 standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in CS/SE/EE or related field.
• 6+ years of embedded software experience in automotive.
• Proficiency in C and C++ programming languages.
• RTOS experience (AUTOSAR, QNX, FreeRTOS).
• Knowledge of CAN, LIN, FlexRay automotive protocols.
• Familiarity with debugging tools, agile methods, and software lifecycles.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and maintain embedded software for automotive ECUs using C/C++.
• Implement and optimize RTOS-based software (AUTOSAR/QNX/embedded Linux).
• Develop software modules for powertrain, body electronics, chassis, and ADAS.
• Integrate software with hardware for reliable system operation.
• Perform unit and integration testing and debugging to ensure quality.
• Collaborate with hardware, system, and software teams to define requirements.
• Participate in code reviews and improve coding standards.
• Document designs, implementation details, and test procedures.

Skills

C programming

C++ programming

RTOS experience

Embedded software

Remote collaboration

Automotive software

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in CS/SE/EE

Tools

AUTOSAR

QNX

FreeRTOS

CAN

LIN

FlexRay

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a highly innovative automotive technology firm seeking a Senior Automotive Software Developer with expertise in embedded systems to join their globally distributed team. This role is fully remote, allowing you to contribute to cutting‑edge automotive projects from any location. You will be responsible for the design, development, and implementation of embedded software for various automotive control units, focusing on real‑time performance, reliability, and safety. The ideal candidate possesses deep knowledge of C/C++ programming, real‑time operating systems (RTOS), automotive communication protocols, and embedded system architectures. You will play a crucial role in developing software for critical automotive functions, ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards. This is an exceptional opportunity to leverage your skills and advance your career within the rapidly evolving field of automotive software engineering, working on advanced vehicle technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and maintain embedded software for automotive ECUs using C/C++.
• Implement and optimize software for real‑time operating systems (RTOS) such as AUTOSAR, QNX, or embedded Linux.
• Develop software modules for various automotive applications, including powertrain control, body electronics, chassis systems, and ADAS.
• Integrate software components with hardware, ensuring efficient and reliable system operation.
• Perform unit testing, integration testing, and debugging to ensure software quality and robustness.
• Collaborate with hardware engineers, system engineers, and other software developers to define and implement software requirements.
• Participate in code reviews and contribute to the improvement of software development processes and coding standards.
• Document software designs, implementation details, and test procedures.
• Stay current with automotive software standards (e.g., MISRAC/C++), tools, and emerging technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in embedded software development, with a strong focus on automotive applications.
• Expert proficiency in C and C++ programming languages.
• Hands‑on experience with real‑time operating systems (RTOS) like AUTOSAR, QNX, or FreeRTOS.
• Knowledge of automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, FlexRay).
• Familiarity with embedded debugging tools and techniques.
• Understanding of software development lifecycles and agile methodologies.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and debugging skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, essential for remote teamwork.
• Experience with functional safety standards (e.g., ISO26262) is a significant advantage.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers unparalleled flexibility and autonomy. Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, performance‑based bonuses, and continuous opportunities for professional development. You will have the chance to work on exciting and challenging projects with a leading company in the automotive sector, contributing to the development of next‑generation vehicles. Join a team of dedicated professionals and advance your career in embedded automotive software from anywhere in the world.