Staff Systems Engineer

Job 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.

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 Job 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, Google Cloud Platform) 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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Why Join Us

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Benefits Overview

The goal of the General Motors total rewards program is to support the health and well-being of you and your family. Our comprehensive compensation plan incudes, the following benefits, in addition to many others:
Paid time off including vacation days, holidays, and parental leave for mothers, fathers and adoptive parents;
Healthcare (including a triple tax advantaged health savings account and wellness incentive), dental, vision and life insurance plans to cover you and your family;
Company and matching contributions to 401K savings plan to help you save for retirement;
Global recognition program for peers and leaders to recognize and be recognized for results and behaviors that reflect our company values;
Tuition assistance and student loan refinancing;
Discount on GM vehicles for you, your family and friends.

Diversity Information

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that workforce diversity creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers. We understand and embrace the variety through which people gain experiences whether through professional, personal, educational, or volunteer opportunities. GM is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications and apply for any positions that match your skills and capabilities.

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