General Motors

Staff Software Engineer

General Motors$189K — $240K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of professional experience in C++ software development
  • Strong grasp of modern C++ standards (C++11/14/17)
  • Experience with UI/graphics development using frameworks like Qt/QML or OpenGL
  • Familiarity with embedded systems, particularly in automotive applications
  • Experience with tools for debugging, such as GDB and Valgrind
  • Knowledge of Android UI development is highly desirable
  • Solid understanding of automotive safety and regulatory requirements

Responsibilities

  • Develop and update infotainment UI applications using modern C++
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement system requirements
  • Debug and resolve performance issues related to graphics and rendering
  • Integrate vehicle signals/services into UI features
  • Support the deployment of features on QNX, Linux, and Android platforms
  • Contribute to the development of scalable UI frameworks for various vehicle programs
  • Participate in code reviews, testing, and continuous integration workflows

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model with in-office attendance required at least 3 times a week
  • Opportunity for relocation benefits
  • Exposure to cutting-edge technologies in automotive interfaces
  • Collaboration with a variety of experts across system engineering and validation teams
  • Participation in code reviews and a focus on quality assurance
Full Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a strong C++ Software Engineer to support development of next-generation automotive UI applications. The role involves development of high-performance, safety/regulatory-focused UI features across QNX/Linux/Android-based platforms, with emphasis on scalable UI architecture, graphics rendering, and system integration.

Experience with Android UI/application development is a strong plus as the organization transitions toward Android-based UI platforms.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain infotainment UI applications using modern C++
  • Work closely with System Engineering, UX, Product, and Validation teams to understand and implement requirements
  • Debug and root-cause issues related to rendering, startup performance, power moding, IPC communication, and graphics behavior
  • Integrate vehicle signals/services into UI applications
  • Support feature bring-up on QNX/Linux/Android platforms
  • Contribute to scalable and adaptive UI frameworks across multiple vehicle programs
  • Participate in code reviews, unit testing, static code analysis, and CI/CD workflows
  • Support performance optimization, memory analysis, and startup time improvements
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams during vehicle integration and milestone deliveries

Required Skills

Core C++ Development

  • Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++11/14/17)•
  • Good understanding of:
    • Object-oriented design
    • Multithreading
    • STL
    • Memory management
    • IPC mechanisms
    • Performance optimization
  • Experience debugging complex issues using tools such as:
    • GDB
    • Valgrind
    • Heap/Memory analyzers

UI / Graphics Development

Experience in one or more:

  • Qt / QML
  • Altia
  • Skia
  • OpenGL / Vulkan
  • Embedded graphics/UI frameworks

Good understanding of:

  • Rendering pipelines
  • Frame timing
  • Animation handling
  • Adaptive/responsive layouts
  • Multi-display architecture

Embedded / Automotive Platform Experience

Preferred experience with:

  • QNX
  • Embedded Linux
  • Vehicle signal integration
  • Middleware/service-based architectures

Understanding of:

  • Power moding
  • Startup sequencing
  • Safety/regulatory UI requirements
  • Automotive development lifecycle

Tools & Development Workflow

Experience with:

  • Git/GitHub
  • VS Code
  • CI/CD pipelines
  • Unit testing frameworks
  • Static code analysis tools (Parasoft/Coverity/SonarQube)
  • Jira/Agile workflows

Android UI Development (Preferred / Plus)

Experience in any of the following is a strong plus:

  • Android application/UI development
  • Android Automotive OS (AAOS)
  • Kotlin/Java
  • Jetpack Compose
  • Android rendering/performance debugging
  • Android services and IPC
  • Display Manager / Surface handling

Preferred Qualities

  • Strong debugging and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work in fast-paced milestone-driven environment
  • Good communication and cross-functional collaboration
  • Ability to understand complex system requirements and convert them into scalable implementations
  • Self-driven with ownership mindset
  • Interest in AI-assisted development workflows and modern developer productivity tools

Nice to Have

  • Experience with GoLang services
  • Knowledge of graphics compositors (Wayland/Weston)
  • Experience with Android/Linux mixed rendering architectures
  • Exposure to AI-assisted development tools (GitHub Copilot, AI agents, log analysis tools)
  • Automotive Cluster/HUD experience
  • Experience or familiarity with Altia Studio and/or Qt Creator editor workflows
  • Familiarity with CAN/CAN FD vehicle networks and vehicle signal communication
  • Understanding of automotive communication protocols and diagnostics concepts
  • Exposure to SOME/IP, Ethernet-based communication, or middleware/service-oriented architectures is a plus

Example Technologies

  • C++, Qt/QML, Kotlin, Altia, Skia
  • OpenGL/Vulkan
  • QNX, Linux, Android Automotive
  • GitHub Actions, SonarQube, Parasoft
  • VS Code, Copilot
  • GoLang (optional)

Compensation: The compensation information is a good faith estimate only. It is based on what a successful applicant might be paid in accordance with applicable state laws. The compensation may not be representative for positions located outside of Bay Area, California.

Compensation: The expected base compensation for this role is: $189000 - $240000. Actual base compensation within the identified range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.

This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

About General Motors

General Motors Company engages in the manufacture and sale of cars and trucks in the United States, China, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. It offers sedans, crossovers, sport utility vehicles, pick-up trucks, coupes, sports/convertibles and hybrid vehicles, hatchbacks/wagons, and vans, as well as mini cars in India. The company also provides parts and accessories, such as iPod and MP3 compatibility, mobility accessories, performance parts, AC parts and services, and merchandise. In addition, it offers vehicle safety, security, and information services. The company provides used vehicles. It offers its products through dealers and distributors. General Motors Company was formerly known as NGMCO, Inc. and changed its name to General Motors Company in July 2009. The company was incorporated in 2009 and is based in Detroit, Michigan. It operates manufacturing facilities in India, the United States, and Canada. General Motors Company operates as a subsidiary of the United States Department of The Treasury. General Motors led global vehicle sales for 77 consecutive years from 1931 through 2007, longer than any other automaker, and is currently among the world's largest automakers by vehicle unit sales. General Motors acts in most countries outside the USA via wholly-owned subsidiaries but operates in China through 10 joint ventures. GM's OnStar subsidiary provides vehicle safety, security, and information services. In 2009, General Motors shed several brands, closing Saturn, Pontiac, and Hummer, and emerged from a government-backed Chapter 11 reorganization. In 2010, GM made an initial public offering IPOs to date and returned to profitability later that year.

General Motors Careers

Join the dynamic team at General Motors, a global leader in automotive innovation and technology. At General Motors, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that propel your career forward while contributing to a legacy of engineering excellence.

Work You’ll Do

Embark on a career with General Motors to drive the future of mobility. Our team is dedicated to redefining the automotive landscape through innovation and leadership in electric vehicles and sustainable solutions. By joining us, you will be part of a culture that values diversity, teamwork, and continuous professional growth.

Transform Your Career

General Motors is not just a company; it's a community where you can grow your skills alongside the best in the industry. Our leadership is committed to providing every employee—from interns to senior professionals—with opportunities for career advancement, leadership development, and diversity training.

Innovate and Lead

At General Motors, innovation is at the core of everything we do. From research and development to manufacturing, our teams work collaboratively to lead the industry with cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices. We encourage our employees to think big and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Join Our Global Team

As part of our global workforce, you will collaborate with talented individuals who are passionate about shaping the future of transportation. General Motors offers a variety of career paths in engineering, design, IT, marketing, and more. With over 155,000 employees worldwide, our network provides expansive opportunities for networking and professional development.

Internship Programs and Employment Benefits

Start your career journey with a General Motors internship, where you can apply your academic knowledge to real-world projects. Our internships provide a robust foundation in the automotive industry, with mentorship from experienced leaders. Full-time employees enjoy a wealth of benefits, including comprehensive health care, retirement plans, and performance bonuses, ensuring that your hard work is rewarded.

Explore Job Opportunities

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, General Motors offers positions that leverage your unique skills. Our hiring process is designed to identify and nurture talent, focusing on aligning your capabilities with the right opportunities for growth within the company.

Stay Connected

Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. At General Motors, we look for innovative, driven, and solution-oriented team players. Explore the possibilities that await you in a career at General Motors.

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Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities available at General Motors. Embark on a journey of growth, innovation, and leadership at General Motors. Shape your future in an environment that fosters diversity, learning, and the pursuit of excellence. Join us and redefine the roads of tomorrow.
Learn more about General Motors
Size
157,000 employees
Market Cap
$46.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.4 billion
Founded
1908
5 Year Trend
-3.2%
Revenue
$122.4 billion
NASDAQ

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