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Staff Systems Engineer

AT General Motors
General Motors

Staff Systems Engineer

Warren, MI

Description

The Role:

General Motors is at the forefront of transforming the automotive industry, with Over-The-Air (OTA) update capabilities being a critical enabler for our vehicles. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Staff Systems Engineer specializing in OTA to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will be a technical leader responsible for the definition, development, integration, and validation of complex OTA systems and strategies for our global vehicle platforms. You will leverage your deep understanding of systems engineering principles, embedded systems, cybersecurity, and network communications to ensure our vehicles can be updated seamlessly, securely, and reliably. This position requires a proactive and collaborative individual who can drive technical solutions for OTA and mentor other engineers in this specialized domain.

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What You'll Do:

  • Lead the systems engineering activities for OTA update capabilities across major vehicle programs, from concept through production and post-launch support.
  • Define and manage system requirements, architecture, and interfaces for OTA update processes, including bootloaders, diagnostic services, update clients, and backend infrastructure interactions.
  • Conduct trade studies and analyses (e.g., FMEA, FTA, DFMEA) to evaluate OTA design alternatives, identify potential risks (security, safety, operational), and ensure system robustness.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including embedded software developers, cybersecurity engineers, IT/cloud platform teams, validation engineers, and suppliers to ensure seamless OTA system integration and functionality.
  • Advise on system integration and verification/validation (V&V) planning and execution for OTA features, including the development of comprehensive test cases, simulation environments, and in-vehicle testing strategies.
  • Analyze test data, troubleshoot complex system-level issues related to OTA updates (e.g., update failures, bricked ECUs, security vulnerabilities), and drive them to resolution.
  • Develop and implement strategies for OTA system optimization, considering factors such as update speed, data usage, bandwidth management, vehicle state management, and rollback strategies.
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to more junior team members on OTA technologies and processes.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices in OTA updates, automotive cybersecurity, and embedded systems.
  • Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project status updates related to OTA systems to stakeholders and leadership.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant automotive standards and regulations concerning software updates, cybersecurity (e.g., ISO 21434, UN R155/R156), and functional safety (e.g., ISO 26262).

Additional Description

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • Minimum of 8 years of experience in systems engineering, with a significant portion focused on embedded systems, software updates, or telematics, preferably in the automotive or a related industry.
  • Proven experience in leading the development and deployment of complex OTA or software update solutions.
  • Strong understanding of embedded systems architecture, bootloaders, and operating systems (e.g., QNX, Linux, Android Automotive).
  • Proficiency in requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, Jama) and system modeling tools (e.g., Cameo Systems Modeler, Enterprise Architect).
  • Experience with system analysis techniques such as FMEA and FTA.
  • Knowledge of automotive communication protocols (e.g., CAN, LIN, Automotive Ethernet, SOME/IP, DoIP).
  • Understanding of cybersecurity principles relevant to OTA, such as secure boot, code signing, encryption, and secure communication.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced, and global team environment.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, especially in diagnosing complex software and system integration issues.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely.

Preferred Skills

  • Master's degree or PhD in a relevant engineering or computer science discipline.
  • Extensive knowledge of functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 26262) and their application to OTA processes.
  • Hands-on experience with automotive cybersecurity standards (e.g., ISO 21434, SAE J3061) and practices.
  • Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and backend systems involved in OTA update delivery.
  • Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and CI/CD pipelines for embedded software.
  • Experience with simulation and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, network simulators).
  • Understanding of software development processes for safety-critical systems.
  • Experience working with suppliers to define and manage OTA-related deliverables.
  • Proven track record of innovation and technical leadership in the OTA domain.
  • Knowledge of device management protocols such as OMA DM (Open Mobile Alliance Device Management).
  • Familiarity with automotive diagnostic standards like SAE J1979 (E/E Diagnostic Test Modes).

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About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

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Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

Accommodations (U.S. and Canada)

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Client-provided location(s): Warren, MI, USA
Job ID: General_Motors-JR-202508073
Employment Type: Full Time

Perks and Benefits

  • Health and Wellness

    • Health Insurance
    • Health Reimbursement Account
    • Dental Insurance
    • Vision Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • Short-Term Disability
    • Long-Term Disability
    • FSA
    • HSA
    • HSA With Employer Contribution
  • Parental Benefits

    • Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
    • Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
    • Adoption Leave
    • Fertility Benefits
    • Adoption Assistance Program
    • Family Support Resources
  • Work Flexibility

    • Flexible Work Hours
    • Remote Work Opportunities
    • Hybrid Work Opportunities
  • Office Life and Perks

    • Casual Dress
    • Happy Hours
    • On-Site Cafeteria
  • Vacation and Time Off

    • Paid Vacation
    • Paid Holidays
    • Personal/Sick Days
    • Leave of Absence
  • Financial and Retirement

    • 401(K)
    • 401(K) With Company Matching
    • Performance Bonus
    • Relocation Assistance
    • Stock Purchase Program
  • Professional Development

    • Tuition Reimbursement
    • Learning and Development Stipend
    • Promote From Within
    • Mentor Program
    • Shadowing Opportunities
    • Access to Online Courses
    • Lunch and Learns
    • Internship Program
  • Diversity and Inclusion

    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
    • Woman founded/led
    • Employee Resource Groups (ERG)

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