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- Tasks: Lead software design for embedded systems and collaborate with clients on innovative projects.
- Company: Forward NPD, a dynamic product development consultancy based in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Autonomy, variety, and the chance to influence full product lifecycles.
- Why this job: Work on technically challenging projects that make a real impact in the tech world.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in embedded software development using C/C++ and RTOS.
- Other info: Join a skilled team that values quality and hands-on engineering.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Forward NPD is a Cambridge-based product development consultancy. We help our clients – from ambitious start-ups to global brands – turn their ideas into successful, manufacturable products. Our work spans the complete product development process, from earliest concept development through to in-life support. Our multidisciplinary team spans industrial and mechanical design, electronic engineering and software development. We focus on practical engineering that delivers.
We’re looking for a Principal Software Engineer to take technical leadership across a range of embedded and connected system projects. You’ll combine deep embedded expertise with system-level awareness, equally at home configuring an RTOS on a low-power MCU as you are discussing cloud integration or data ingress with a client. You’ll guide technical direction, make pragmatic design choices, and still enjoy hands‑on coding where it matters most. This is a key role within a consulting business: part engineer, part architect, part trusted adviser to colleagues and clients alike.
What You’ll Do
- Lead the software design and development of embedded and connected systems, often centred on low-cost, low-power MCUs running RTOS.
- Take a system-wide view: balancing firmware, hardware, connectivity, and cloud considerations.
- Work directly with clients to capture requirements, shape architectures, and define delivery plans.
- Write, review, and integrate production-quality code in C/C++, and occasionally Python or other languages.
- Mentor other engineers and help drive best practice across design, implementation, and test.
- Stay on top of relevant technologies – particularly those shaping the IoT and connected device landscape.
What You’ll Bring
- Strong experience developing embedded software using C/C++ for RTOS-based systems (e.g., FreeRTOS, Zephyr, …).
- Solid understanding of low-power, resource-constrained systems.
- Sound knowledge of embedded Linux.
- Experience with cloud, web, or mobile technologies and how they connect into device ecosystems.
- Proven ability to lead design discussions, make decisions, and communicate clearly with both engineers and customers.
- A balance of technical confidence and curiosity – you know your craft but still want to push it further.
Why Forward NPD?
- Work on varied, technically challenging projects that actually get built.
- Influence full product lifecycles — from concept through to manufacture and deployment.
- Enjoy autonomy, variety, and direct impact.
- Collaborate with a small, skilled team of engineers who care about doing things properly.
If you’re an experienced embedded developer who still enjoys hands‑on engineering, and you want to play a leading role in how technology‑enabled products are conceived and delivered, we’d love to talk.
Principal Software Engineer. in Cambridge employer: Forward NPD
Contact Detail:
Forward NPD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer. in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend meetups, tech talks, or even online webinars. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving embedded systems or cloud integration. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do and sets you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on both technical and soft skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with C/C++ and RTOS, but also practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Remember, communication is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with our projects and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer. in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Principal Software Engineer role. Highlight your embedded software development experience, especially with C/C++ and RTOS, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about embedded systems and how your background aligns with our projects. Share specific examples of your work that demonstrate your technical leadership and problem-solving skills.
Showcase Your Projects: If you’ve worked on relevant projects, don’t hold back! Include links or descriptions of your work that showcase your ability to lead design discussions and deliver production-quality code. We love seeing what you can do!
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 us you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forward NPD
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your embedded software development skills, especially in C/C++ and RTOS. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've tackled low-power, resource-constrained systems, as this will show your technical depth.
✨Understand the Big Picture
Since the role involves balancing firmware, hardware, and cloud considerations, be prepared to talk about how these elements interact. Think of examples where you've had to take a system-wide view and how that influenced your design choices.
✨Client Communication is Key
This position requires direct interaction with clients, so practice articulating complex technical concepts in simple terms. Prepare to share experiences where you've successfully captured requirements or shaped architectures based on client needs.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll be guiding others. Think of times when you've mentored junior engineers or led design discussions. Highlight your ability to make decisions and communicate effectively with both technical teams and clients.