MISRA

Term from Automotive Electronics industry explained for recruiters

MISRA (Motor Industry Software Reliability Association) is a set of coding rules and guidelines used when creating software for cars and other vehicles. Think of it as a rulebook that helps programmers write safer and more reliable code, specifically for automotive systems like braking, steering, or engine control. When companies mention MISRA in job descriptions, they're looking for people who understand how to write code that meets these safety standards. It's similar to having a strict recipe book that ensures food safety in restaurants, but for car software.

Examples in Resumes

Developed engine control software following MISRA C guidelines

Led team compliance efforts to implement MISRA standards in vehicle safety systems

Performed code reviews to ensure MISRA compliance in automotive software

Typical job title: "Automotive Software Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Embedded Software Engineer Automotive Software Developer Safety-Critical Software Engineer C/C++ Developer Firmware Engineer Automotive Systems Engineer

Where to Find Automotive Software Engineers

Professional Organizations

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement MISRA guidelines in a large automotive project?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they would plan the implementation across teams, set up code checking tools, train developers, and manage exceptions to the rules when necessary. Should mention experience with leading such initiatives.

Q: How do you handle conflicts between MISRA rules and project requirements?

Expected Answer: Should describe the process of documenting deviations, risk assessment, and how to make informed decisions about when to deviate from MISRA guidelines while maintaining safety.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the most common MISRA rules you've worked with?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic MISRA rules in simple terms and why they're important for automotive safety, with examples from their experience.

Q: How do you ensure code compliance with MISRA standards?

Expected Answer: Should mention using code analysis tools, review processes, and understanding of how to interpret and fix violations found during compliance checking.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is MISRA and why is it important in automotive software?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of MISRA as a safety standard and its importance in preventing software-related accidents in vehicles.

Q: What tools have you used for checking MISRA compliance?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with at least one basic code analysis tool and understand the concept of automated code checking for standards compliance.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of MISRA guidelines
  • Using code checking tools
  • Writing simple compliant code
  • Documentation of compliance

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Implementing MISRA rules in projects
  • Handling rule violations
  • Code review for compliance
  • Understanding safety requirements

Senior (5+ years)

  • Leading MISRA implementation
  • Training and mentoring teams
  • Managing compliance processes
  • Safety-critical system design

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with automotive or safety-critical software
  • Lack of understanding of basic safety concepts
  • No familiarity with code review processes
  • No experience with coding standards or guidelines