Core Netcom Software Engineer at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, MI

About Ford

Ford Motor Company is a global automotive leader with over 120 years of innovation, headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. We pioneered the moving assembly line and continue to shape the future of mobility through groundbreaking advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and connected car technologies. Our Product Development team leverages design thinking and user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products that delight customers worldwide. From the iconic F-150 Lightning to next-generation autonomous platforms, Ford is at the forefront of sustainable and intelligent transportation solutions.

Role Overview

As a Core Netcom Software Engineer at Ford in Dearborn, MI, you will play a pivotal role in developing the backbone of our vehicle's communication systems. This full-time position focuses on core network communication software, enabling seamless connectivity for smart mobility, electrification, and autonomy initiatives. Based at our state-of-the-art Dearborn campus, you will contribute to world-class projects that redefine how vehicles interact with the world around them. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have expertise in embedded networking, this is your chance to join a team pushing the boundaries of automotive technology.

Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day impact will include:

• Architecting and implementing core network communication stacks for automotive ECUs, supporting protocols like TCP/IP, CAN-FD, Ethernet, and 5G V2X.
• Optimizing software for low-latency, high-reliability performance in safety-critical systems compliant with ISO 26262 and AUTOSAR standards.
• Collaborating with hardware engineers, systems architects, and autonomy teams to integrate Netcom solutions into production vehicles.
• Leading debugging, simulation, and hardware-in-the-loop testing to ensure robust operation under diverse conditions.
• Contributing to agile development processes, including CI/CD pipelines and version control with Git.

Qualifications & Requirements

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 3-5+ years of professional experience in embedded software development, with a focus on automotive networking.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ for resource-constrained environments; experience with Python for scripting.

Preferred Skills

• Deep knowledge of automotive communication protocols (SOME/IP, DDS, FlexRay) and middleware frameworks.
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems like QNX or Green Hills INTEGRITY.
• Experience with cybersecurity standards such as ISO/SAE 21434 for secure vehicle communications.
• Demonstrated ability to work in cross-functional teams using tools like Jira, Confluence, and Vector tools.

Ford values diverse backgrounds and encourages applications from candidates passionate about sustainable mobility.

Benefits & Perks

Ford offers an industry-leading compensation package designed to reward excellence and support work-life balance:

• Competitive base salary estimated at $120,000 - $170,000 annually, plus performance incentives and stock options.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• 401(k) with generous company match and immediate vesting.
• Paid parental leave, adoption assistance, and flexible work arrangements.
• Employee discounts on Ford vehicles, tuition reimbursement up to $10,000/year, and onsite fitness centers.

Career Growth

At Ford, your career trajectory is limitless. This role offers pathways to senior engineering positions, technical leadership, or specialized domains like AV software or EV powertrain controls. We invest in your growth through Ford College, mentorship programs, and global rotations. Many engineers advance to principal roles or pivot to product management, shaping Ford's roadmap for intelligent vehicles.

Why Join Us

Dearborn, MI, is the heart of Ford's innovation ecosystem, with proximity to our advanced testing facilities and partnerships with tech giants like Google and Argo AI. Work on real-world impacts: enabling Level 4 autonomy, scaling BlueOval City battery production, and connecting millions of vehicles via FordPass. Our culture emphasizes inclusion, sustainability, and bold ideas—join a team where your code drives the future of transportation. Ford is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce.

Role FAQs

What is the work environment like?

Hybrid model with modern offices, collaborative spaces, and access to cutting-edge labs in Dearborn.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Yes, comprehensive relocation support for eligible candidates moving to the Detroit area.

What tools and technologies will I use?

Vector CANoe, Lauterbach debuggers, Jenkins for CI, and cloud-based simulation environments.

How does Ford support professional development?

Through certifications (e.g., ASPICE), conferences, and internal tech talks.

Is this role remote-friendly?

Primarily onsite for hardware collaboration, with flexible hybrid options post-onboarding.

Ready to accelerate your career? Apply now for the Core Netcom Software Engineer position at Ford Motor Company.