Embedded Controls Software Engineer

Ford • Dearborn, MI

2d • $85,400 - $192,900 • Hybrid

About The Position

As an Embedded Controls Software Engineer, you will be a critical contributor to the design, development, and validation of advanced embedded control software for next-generation automotive systems. This specialized role focuses on the Body Control Module, directly impacting vehicle safety, user experience, and electrification readiness. You will leverage your expertise in controls theory, real-time systems, and embedded architecture to architect, develop, and optimize complex, safety-critical software throughout the entire product lifecycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or Foreign Equivalency Degree or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• 3+ years of professional experience in embedded software development for automotive control systems.
• 3+ years' experience in embedded systems, control algorithms, and model-based design methodologies.
• 3+ years' experience in C/C++ programming for embedded applications.
• 2+ years' experience with automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with vehicle networking protocols beyond CAN/LIN, such as Automotive Ethernet.
• Direct experience with calibration support and associated tools (e.g.,DSpace, ETAS INCA).
• Prior experience in electrification systems (e.g., Lighting, Personalization, BUN).
• Familiarity with agile software development methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Strategically design, develop, and implement sophisticated embedded control systems for Body Control Modules (BCM). This includes performing in-depth high-level analysis and comprehensive design planning of new features to support scalable, current production and next-generation Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) software design. This role demands a deep understanding of software modeling and embedded software design principles.
• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional stakeholders to meticulously capture system-level requirements and translate them into detailed functional and technical specifications for complex control algorithms and software modules, ensuring alignment with vehicle performance and safety objectives.
• Design, develop, and optimize advanced control algorithms and implement AUTOSAR-compliant software components using industry-standard programming languages and environments such as C/C++, MATLAB (Stateflow/Simulink), and Python. Utilize tools like DaVinci Developer for AUTOSAR configuration and integration.
• Lead the design, development, and execution of rigorous testing strategies, including Model-in-the-Loop (MIL), Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulations, as well as integration and unit testing using frameworks like Google Test. Perform on-target validation with specialized tools such as Vector CANoe and MULTI debugger to ensure robustness under real-world conditions. Conduct thorough root cause analysis of software defects and implement robust, long-term solutions.
• Ensure strict adherence to automotive industry standards and best practices, including ISO 26262 (Functional Safety), ASPICE (Automotive SPICE), and AUTOSAR guidelines. Implement and enforce quality checks such as static code analysis and Model Advisor checks to maintain the highest software quality and reliability.
• Identify bottlenecks in the software development lifecycle and proactively implement automation scripts (e.g., using Python) and reusable model templates to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and significantly reduce development cycle time.

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
• Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
• Tuition assistance
• Established and active employee resource groups
• Paid time off for individual and team community service
• A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
• Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level