Brake Controls Software Application Design Engineer

Ford Ford · Auto · Dearborn, MI +1 · Ford Next Businesses

Software Application Design Engineer for Brake Controls at Ford, focusing on the integration of software with vehicle dynamics for EVs and advanced driver-assist systems. Responsibilities include owning the software lifecycle, managing supplier partnerships, bridging virtual and physical testing, working with vehicle networks, and championing quality and diagnostics.

What you'd actually do

  1. Own the Software Lifecycle: Lead the end-to-end delivery of Brake Controls software and calibration, managing key milestones, change management, and seamless Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates.
  2. Drive Global Supplier Partnerships: Act as the technical lead guiding supplier partners through the Ford Global Product Development System (GPDS), leading Software Technical Design Reviews (TDRs), and ensuring ASPICE compliance.
  3. Bridge Virtual & Physical Worlds: Go beyond the desk. You will support prototype vehicle builds, troubleshoot on Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) simulators, and root-cause complex issues at assembly plants during End-of-Line (EOL) setups.
  4. Master Complex Vehicle Networks: Work with advanced cross-module communication systems (including CAN, CS, CMA, E2E, and PARSED) to ensure flawless integration of driver-assist and chassis control features.
  5. Champion Quality & Diagnostics: Investigate Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), lead Quality Early Detection (QED) initiatives, and release comprehensive diagnostic specifications to ensure world-class vehicle reliability.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • 4+ years of hands-on experience in the design or development of chassis or powertrain controls.
  • 4+ years of experience navigating software change management processes and delivering high-quality software work packages.
  • 4+ years of experience in engineering roles with structured deliverables, milestones, and a proven track record of meeting program timing.

Nice to have

  • Familiarity with ISO 26262 (Functional Safety) and quality assurance processes like FMEA.
  • Deep understanding of vehicle network communications (e.g., CAN) and experience utilizing digital/analog data acquisition and system analysis tools.
  • 2+ years of experience managing technical suppliers, running standup meetings, and presenting technical status to high-level stakeholders.
  • A self-starter attitude with a passion for diagnosing vehicle issues, experimenting on test benches, and bringing concept designs to production rapidly.

What the JD emphasized

  • ASPICE compliance
  • ISO 26262 (Functional Safety)
  • quality assurance processes like FMEA