Staff Software Engineer

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 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
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Total Rewards | Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
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
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us [email protected] or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.