At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop cutting-edge embedded software for advanced avionics and defence systems.
- Company: Join ALTEN, a global leader in engineering and technology consultancy.
- Benefits: Enjoy a personalised career path, private medical insurance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with diverse projects and clear career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on mission-critical systems that shape the future of technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in embedded software development with strong C/C++ skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
ALTEN is a global engineering and technology consultancy operating across over 35 countries worldwide. We partner with industry leaders across sectors including Aeronautics, Aerospace, Defence, Naval, Automotive, Energy, Rail, IT and many more to deliver innovative engineering solutions that drive technological advancement and support sustainable transformation.
Our teams of passionate and agile engineers work on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of technology and sustainability. At ALTEN, we empower talented engineers to innovate, solve complex challenges, and deliver impactful solutions that build tomorrow’s world—today.
Work on cutting-edge embedded software systems supporting advanced avionics and land-based defence platforms. You’ll develop robust, real-time software that underpins mission-critical systems operating in highly challenging environments. You’ll be hands-on across the full embedded software lifecycle, working on low-level development, hardware integration, and performance-critical applications — contributing to systems that demand precision, reliability and safety.
Location: Hastings
On-site: Hybrid (3 days per week)
Seniority: Mid–Senior (5+ years experience)
Security Clearance: Candidates must be willing and eligible to obtain SC clearance.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop and maintain embedded software using C/C++ within real-time environments
- Develop software for avionics and land defence systems, interfacing closely with hardware
- Work across the full lifecycle from requirements and architecture through to integration, testing and deployment
- Support hardware/software integration, debugging and system bring-up activities
- Develop and optimise code for performance-critical and resource-constrained environments
- Contribute to verification and validation activities, including unit and integration testing
- Collaborate with systems, electronics and hardware engineers to ensure seamless system performance
- Participate in code reviews, technical discussions and continuous improvement activities
Qualifications
Required Skills
- 5+ years’ experience in embedded software development
- Strong programming experience in C/C++ within real-time or embedded systems
- Experience working close to hardware interfaces (drivers, peripherals, communication protocols)
- Understanding of embedded systems architecture and constraints
- Experience across the software development lifecycle in safety-critical or regulated environments
- Strong debugging and problem-solving skills in low-level systems
Soft Skills & Collaboration
- Strong communicator within multidisciplinary engineering teams
- Proactive and solution-focused mindset
- Ability to work in structured, process-driven environments (defence / safety-critical)
- Collaborative approach with a focus on quality and delivery
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, or relevant technical military background with equivalent experience.
Desirable Skills
- Experience within avionics or defence systems
- Knowledge of real-time operating systems (RTOS) (e.g. VxWorks, FreeRTOS, Embedded Linux)
- Experience with communication protocols (e.g. CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet)
- Exposure to safety-critical standards (e.g. DO-178C, MISRA)
- Experience with hardware debugging tools (e.g. oscilloscopes, JTAG, logic analysers)
- Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines or automated testing frameworks
Additional Information
We bring together entrepreneurial, tech-driven people to deliver innovative solutions for leading companies. At ALTEN, you’ll work on exciting projects, supported by ongoing learning, mentoring, and clear career development tailored to your goals. Join a passionate team and help build tomorrow, today.
In short you get:
- A personalised career path and a rewarding management style
- A huge diversity of engineering projects and industries
- Private Medical Insurance
- Cycle & Tech Scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Life insurance & Pension Scheme
- Social atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildings
- Flexible way of working (role dependent)
We are proud to support the Armed Forces Covenant and actively encourage applications from members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, service leavers, and military spouses/partners. We recognise the value of military skills and experience and are committed to ensuring that no applicant is unfairly disadvantaged during our recruitment and selection processes. ALTEN is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and values the strength that comes from a global mix of backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background or protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. This role may require you to have or be willing to go through Security Clearance. As part of the onboarding process candidates will be asked to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard; details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected. Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.
Embedded Software Engineer in Hastings employer: ALTEN
ALTEN is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture, where engineers are empowered to innovate and tackle complex challenges in cutting-edge projects. Located in Hastings, employees benefit from a hybrid working model, ongoing learning opportunities, and a supportive environment that values diversity and collaboration. With a focus on personal career development and a range of employee benefits, including private medical insurance and a vibrant social atmosphere, ALTEN is dedicated to building tomorrow's world today.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Embedded Software Engineer in Hastings
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at ALTEN on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the technical interview by brushing up on your C/C++ skills and embedded systems knowledge. Practice coding challenges and be ready to discuss your past projects in detail—show us what you've got!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of soft skills! Be ready to demonstrate your communication and collaboration abilities during interviews. We love engineers who can work well with multidisciplinary teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance! Tailor your application to highlight your experience with safety-critical systems and real-time environments. Let’s get you on board to build tomorrow’s world together!
We think you need these skills to ace Embedded Software Engineer in Hastings
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Embedded Software Engineer role. Highlight your experience with C/C++ and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving real-time systems or hardware integration.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about embedded systems and how your skills align with our mission at ALTEN. Don’t forget to mention any experience in safety-critical environments!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled complex challenges in previous roles. We love engineers who can think on their feet and come up with innovative solutions, so let that creativity shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at ALTEN!
How to prepare for a job interview at ALTEN
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your C/C++ skills and understand the intricacies of embedded systems. Be ready to discuss your experience with real-time environments and hardware integration, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share specific examples of how you've tackled complex challenges in low-level systems. Highlight your debugging techniques and any experiences with safety-critical environments to demonstrate your capability.
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Familiarise yourself with ALTEN's projects and values. Knowing their focus on innovation and sustainability will help you align your answers with their goals, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the company culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and the technologies they use. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
