Protected DC-DC Software Application Engineer

Ford • Dearborn, MI

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

Ford is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Software Application Engineer to join our innovative Body Controls organization. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the design, development, integration, testing, and release of embedded software for advanced DC-DC converter solutions that power and manage various electrical systems within Ford's next-generation vehicles. This position demands an understanding of embedded software development, real-time control systems, functional safety, cybersecurity, and automotive electrical architectures, ensuring our DCDC software is robust, efficient, safe, and compliant with global automotive standards. You will collaborate with our core software team, during the software product lifecycle from concept to production, collaborating with cross-functional teams and external suppliers to deliver world-class power control software for critical body electronic systems. You will manage the entire software lifecycle for 48V DCDC modules, ensuring that all software implementations meet Ford's stringent functional, cybersecurity, and quality standards, and are delivered on time to support key program milestones. This position requires a deep understanding of automotive power supply systems and robust automotive software development and delivery processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field. or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• 3+ years of experience in embedded software development and delivery within the automotive industry.
• Experience included in 3+ years of Software Delivery experience :
• Strong understanding of automotive software development processes, including familiarity with ASPICE and ISO 26262.
• Demonstrated knowledge of power electronics, specifically DC-DC converters and 48V vehicle architectures.
• Experience working with automotive suppliers on software development projects
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles as applied to automotive embedded systems
• Excellent problem-solving skills and experience with Root Cause Analysis (RCA) methodologies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Experience with Ford's Global Product Development System (GPDS) and related tools (e.g., WERS,Integrator).
• Experience with software validation tools and methodologies.
• Knowledge of advanced control techniques for power converters.
• Knowledge of diagnostic protocols (e.g., UDS, OBD-II).
• Familiarity with requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, JAMA).
• Prior experience with component testing on benches or dynos.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and release of embedded software for 48V DCDC converter components, collaborating closely with external suppliers.
• Translate Ford's functional, performance, diagnostic, cybersecurity, safety, and quality requirements into clear and actionable software specifications for suppliers.
• Act as the primary technical interface for software-related topics between Ford and supplier engineering teams, fostering strong partnerships.
• Review and approve supplier software designs, architectures, test plans, and validation reports to ensure compliance with Ford standards and industry best practices (e.g., ASPICE, ISO 26262).
• Monitor supplier software development progress, track key performance indicators, and manage deliverables to ensure adherence to program timelines and quality gates.
• Facilitate efficient resolution of technical issues and defects during all phases of the software development lifecycle, including root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
• Ensure rigorous software validation and verification activities are conducted, supporting both bench and vehicle-level testing.
• Support vehicle integration and testing efforts for the 48V DCDC component, troubleshooting software-related issues as they arise.
• Participate in cross-functional team meetings, design reviews, FMEAs, and other quality-related processes to ensure robust product development.
• Understanding of power electronics fundamentals and DCDC converter operation, particularly for low-voltage or specific body system power requirements.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in automotive software, power electronics, and 48V systems.

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