Senior Automotive Software Engineer - Embedded Systems

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automotive Software Engineer (Embedded Systems) for a fully remote role. You design, develop, test, and maintain embedded software for ECUs across infotainment, ADAS, and powertrain domains, leveraging C/C++ and RTOS-based architectures.

You will implement CAN/LIN/Ethernet stacks, work with AUTOSAR or similar architectures, and collaborate with hardware and software teams in a distributed setup. Previous automotive SDLC & agile practice is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5-7 years of embedded software development experience in automotive applications.
• Proficiency in C and C++ with low-level programming understanding.
• Experience with RTOS (QNX, VxWorks) for safety-critical applications.
• Familiarity with CAN, LIN, Automotive Ethernet and AUTOSAR or similar architectures.
• Knowledge of SDLC and agile methodologies.
• Experience with debugging tools, emulators, and JTAG interfaces.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test embedded software for automotive ECUs using C/C++.
• Develop and maintain RTOS for safety-critical applications.
• Implement software components per AUTOSAR or equivalent standards.
• Create drivers and middleware for hardware interfaces and sensors.
• Develop communication stacks for CAN, LIN, Ethernet networks.
• Perform unit, integration, and system testing to ensure quality.
• Collaborate with hardware, system, and application teams in a remote setting.
• Participate in code reviews and debugging of complex issues.
• Contribute to software architecture and requirements based on specifications.
• Stay updated on embedded systems and automotive software trends.

Skills

problem solving

communication

team collaboration

Education

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

Tools

C/C++ programming

RTOS (QNX, VxWorks)

AUTOSAR

CAN/LIN/Automotive Ethernet

JTAG / debugging tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in automotive technology, seeking a highly skilled Senior Automotive Software Engineer specializing in Embedded Systems. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute to cutting-edge automotive software development from anywhere. You will be instrumental in designing, developing, and testing embedded software for critical vehicle systems, including infotainment, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and powertrain control. This role demands a deep understanding of real-time operating systems (RTOS), C/C++ programming, and automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN, Ethernet). We are looking for a proactive, self-motivated individual who thrives in a remote-first environment and is passionate about shaping the future of mobility. Your expertise will directly impact the safety, efficiency, and user experience of next-generation vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement embedded software solutions for automotive ECUs (Electronic Control Units) using C/C++.
• Develop and maintain real-time operating systems (RTOS) for safety-critical and performance-intensive applications.
• Implement and integrate software components adhering to automotive standards such as AUTOSAR.
• Develop drivers and middleware for various hardware interfaces and sensors.
• Design and implement communication stacks for automotive networks like CAN, LIN, FlexRay, and Automotive Ethernet.
• Perform unit testing, integration testing, and system testing to ensure software quality and reliability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, system architects, and application developers, in a remote setting.
• Participate in code reviews, debugging, and troubleshooting of complex software issues.
• Contribute to the definition of software architecture and requirements based on system specifications.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in embedded systems, automotive software, and development tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in embedded software development, with a significant focus on automotive applications.
• Proficiency in C and C++ programming languages, with a strong understanding of low-level programming concepts.
• Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as QNX, VxWorks, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Automotive Ethernet).
• Experience with AUTOSAR or other automotive software architectures is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and agile methodologies.
• Experience with debugging tools, emulators, and JTAG interfaces.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a distributed, remote team environment.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. Our client invests in its remote workforce, providing opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement. You will have the flexibility to work from your preferred location while contributing to groundbreaking automotive projects. We offer a stimulating and collaborative work environment where innovation is encouraged. The role provides access to state-of-the-art development tools and technologies, enabling you to excel in your field.