Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

Full-Time 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
H

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team in developing innovative embedded software for Electronic Warfare systems.
  • Company: Holt Executive Ltd focuses on sourcing elite talent for aerospace and space tech industries.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for technical growth and leadership.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of defence technology while working on mission-critical projects.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Software, Electronics, or STEM; strong C++ experience required.
  • Other info: Must be a UK national eligible for full security clearance.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

This range is provided by Holt Executive Ltd. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

Direct message the job poster from Holt Executive Ltd

Technical Headhunter | Sourcing Elite Talent for Aerospace, Satellite & Space Tech

Are you ready to take the lead in developing cutting-edge embedded software solutions for next-generation Electronic Warfare systems? We\’re seeking a Principal / Lead Software Engineer to play a pivotal role in driving innovative and mission-critical solutions.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced engineer to combine hands-on development with leadership, guiding a multidisciplinary team and delivering robust embedded solutions in a high-integrity environment.

What You’ll Be Doing:

  • Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of engineers
  • Take ownership of project planning, technical reviews, and reporting
  • Drive all phases of the software lifecycle: requirements, design, implementation, testing, and integration
  • Develop embedded software using RTOSs such as VxWorks or embedded Linux
  • Deploy software across multi-core or distributed hardware platforms
  • Collaborate closely with hardware and firmware teams to deliver integrated systems
  • Follow standards such as RTCA DO-178C and MISRA C/C++ for airborne software development
  • Contribute to design reviews, gate reviews, and agile development ceremonies

What You’ll Bring:

  • Strong experience with C++(14 or above)
  • Proficiency in UML and Object-Oriented Design techniques
  • Deep understanding of the full software lifecycle in regulated environments
  • Experience working in Agile environments (e.g. Scrum), with tools like Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket, and GitLab
  • Exposure to airborne software standards such as RTCA DO-178C DAL C or similar
  • Ability to communicate effectively and influence technical direction

Bonus Skills:

  • Familiarity with tools like Matlab Simulink, Cameo, DOORS, or Dimensions
  • Previous experience in systems requiring high design assurance and real-time performance
  • Capability to operate as a technical authority or team lead

Requirements:

  • Degree in Software, Electronics, or another STEM-based discipline
  • Must be a UK national and eligible for full UK security clearance

Join a dynamic, forward-thinking team where you can lead innovative projects, grow technically, and contribute to the future of electronic warfare systems.

Apply now and help shape the next generation of mission-critical defence technology.

Seniority level

  • Seniority level

    Mid-Senior level

Employment type

  • Employment type

    Full-time

Job function

  • Industries

    Defense and Space Manufacturing

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Holt Executive Ltd by 2x

Sign in to set job alerts for “Software Engineer” roles.

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago

Front End Developer (Remote Fixed Term Contract)

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago

Backend Junior Software Engineer – Remote 4 days a week (Europe)

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom $30,000.00-$40,000.00 1 day ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 days ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 days ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 4 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 days ago

Full Stack Engineer – Edinburgh / Glasgow

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 days ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 days ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 months ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 6 days ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 day ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago

Internship – AI Embedded Software Engineer (Italy Based)

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 months ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 hours ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 6 days ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 4 hours ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 months ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 days ago

We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Principal Software Engineer employer: Holt Executive Ltd

Join Holt Executive Ltd, a leader in the aerospace and defence sector, where you will have the opportunity to lead a talented team in developing innovative embedded software solutions for next-generation Electronic Warfare systems. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and technical growth, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you can advance your career in a high-integrity environment located in the vibrant city of Edinburgh. With competitive compensation and the chance to work on mission-critical projects, this is an excellent opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the field.
H

Contact Detail:

Holt Executive Ltd Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Make sure to highlight your leadership experience in previous roles. As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll be expected to lead and mentor a team, so showcasing any past experiences where you've successfully guided a team will set you apart.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the specific software lifecycle processes mentioned in the job description, such as RTCA DO-178C and Agile methodologies. Being able to discuss these frameworks confidently during interviews will demonstrate your readiness for the role.

✨Tip Number 3

Network with professionals in the aerospace and defence sectors. Engaging with industry peers can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your technical skills in C++ and embedded systems in detail. Be ready to provide examples of projects where you've applied these skills, especially in regulated environments, as this is crucial for the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer

C++ (14 or above)
Embedded Software Development
RTOS (e.g. VxWorks, Embedded Linux)
UML and Object-Oriented Design
Software Lifecycle Management
Agile Methodologies (e.g. Scrum)
Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket, GitLab
RTCA DO-178C Compliance
MISRA C/C++ Standards
Technical Leadership
Project Planning and Reporting
Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
Design Reviews and Gate Reviews
Effective Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with C++ and embedded software development. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held and your familiarity with Agile methodologies, as these are key aspects of the job.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you're passionate about developing embedded software for Electronic Warfare systems. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead a team and deliver high-integrity solutions.

Showcase Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your proficiency in UML, Object-Oriented Design, and any experience with RTOSs like VxWorks or embedded Linux. Highlight your understanding of airborne software standards such as RTCA DO-178C, as this will set you apart from other candidates.

Prepare for Technical Questions: Anticipate technical questions related to the software lifecycle and your experience in regulated environments. Be ready to discuss how you've contributed to design reviews and agile ceremonies in past roles.

How to prepare for a job interview at Holt Executive Ltd

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll be expected to lead and mentor a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you motivate your team, and any challenges you've overcome in guiding others.

✨Demonstrate Technical Expertise

Make sure to highlight your strong experience with C++ and your understanding of the full software lifecycle. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills, especially in regulated environments.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Standards

Since the role involves working with airborne software standards like RTCA DO-178C, it’s crucial to understand these regulations. Prepare to explain how you've adhered to such standards in past projects.

✨Prepare for Agile Discussions

Given the emphasis on Agile methodologies, brush up on your experience with tools like Jira and Confluence. Be ready to share how you've contributed to Agile ceremonies and how they improved project outcomes.

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

H
Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>