Principal Hardware Architect - Platform Architecture

Job Description

General Motors is redefining mobility with electrification, autonomous driving, and software‑defined vehicle platforms. Our Hardware Architecture team is at the forefront of this transformation, developing the next generation of zonal and centralized compute architectures. We are seeking a Principal Hardware Architect with deep expertise in vehicle E / E systems, semiconductor technology, and high‑speed hardware design to lead the definition and optimization of our future hardware platforms.

This role is categorized as hybrid. The successful candidate is expected to report to Mountain View, CA or Warren, MI three times (Tues., Wed., Thurs.) per week, at minimum [or other frequency dictated by the business].

The Role

As a Principal Hardware Architect, you will define and drive the hardware architecture for GM’s next‑generation zonal and centralized vehicle platforms. You will evaluate tradeoffs across compute, networking, harnessing, and ECU design to deliver scalable, reliable, and cost‑effective solutions. This role requires a strong systems‑level perspective, deep technical expertise, and the ability to collaborate across hardware, software, and vehicle architecture teams.

Responsibilities

Architectural Leadership

Define and evolve GM’s zonal hardware architecture, balancing performance, cost, scalability, and reliability.

Lead tradeoff analysis across compute partitioning, networking, harnessing, and ECU design.

Translate semiconductor technology roadmaps into platform‑level hardware requirements.

System & Network Integration

Define physical layer network topology and constraints for in‑vehicle communication (Ethernet, CAN, LIN, PCIe, etc.).

Decompose system‑level requirements into ECU‑ and harness‑level specifications.

Collaborate with software architects to align hardware and software partitioning on microprocessors.

Hardware Design Requirements

Define ECU hardware design requirements, including power, thermal, and signal integrity considerations.

Provide guidance on high‑speed PCB design and layout best practices.

Ensure manufacturability, reliability, and compliance with automotive standards.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

Partner with vehicle architecture, system architecture, software, and semiconductor teams to ensure cohesive system design.

Serve as a technical authority and mentor for hardware engineering teams.

Influence supplier and technology partner roadmaps to align with GM’s long‑term strategy.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

Drive adoption of new technologies, tools, and methodologies in hardware architecture.

Anticipate future vehicle architecture needs and propose forward‑looking solutions.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.

12+ years of experience in hardware / system architecture, with significant experience in automotive or other high‑reliability industries.

Proven track record of defining and delivering complex hardware architectures at scale.

Technical Expertise

Deep understanding of zonal architectures and vehicle E / E tradeoffs.

Strong knowledge of software partitioning on microprocessors and its hardware implications.

Expertise in physical layer network topology (Ethernet, CAN, LIN, PCIe, SerDes) and constraints.

Ability to map semiconductor technology capabilities to physical layer and harness requirements.

Strong background in high‑speed PCB design and layout.

Thorough understanding of vehicle architectures and tradeoff analysis.

Leadership & Collaboration

Ability to influence cross‑functional teams and drive alignment across hardware, software, and vehicle architecture.

Strong communication skills for engaging with technical and executive stakeholders.

Experience mentoring and guiding engineering teams.

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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 NewYork, Colorado, California, or Washington.

The expected base compensation for this role is : $228,900 – $350,500. Actual base compensation within the identified range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.

Benefits

GM offers a variety of health and wellbeing benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.

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.

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.

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 or call us at 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.

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