Principal / Lead Software Engineer
Principal / Lead Software Engineer

Principal / Lead Software Engineer

Luton Full-Time 48000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team in developing cutting-edge embedded software for Electronic Warfare systems.
  • Company: Join a dynamic team focused on innovative defence technology solutions.
  • Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for growth, leadership, and working on mission-critical projects.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of technology, shaping the future of electronic warfare.
  • Qualifications: Strong C++ experience and a degree in Software, Electronics, or STEM required.
  • Other info: Must be a UK national eligible for full security clearance.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.

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:

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

What You\’ll Bring:

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

Bonus Skills:

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

Requirements:

  1. Degree in Software, Electronics, or another STEM-based discipline
  2. 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.

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Principal / Lead Software Engineer employer: Holt Recruitment

Join a pioneering company that values innovation and collaboration, where as a Principal / Lead Software Engineer, you will have the opportunity to lead a talented team in developing cutting-edge embedded software solutions for Electronic Warfare systems. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through mentorship and continuous learning, while our commitment to high-integrity environments ensures that your contributions are impactful and meaningful. Located in the UK, we offer a unique chance to work on mission-critical projects that shape the future of defence technology.
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Contact Detail:

Holt Recruitment Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal / Lead Software Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as VxWorks and embedded Linux. Having hands-on experience or projects that showcase your skills with these RTOSs will make you stand out during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Brush up on your knowledge of airborne software standards like RTCA DO-178C and MISRA C/C++. Being able to discuss how you've applied these standards in past projects can demonstrate your suitability for a role that requires high design assurance.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences in detail. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or mentored others, especially in Agile environments. This will show that you can take ownership and guide a multidisciplinary team effectively.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with professionals in the defence technology sector. Attend relevant meetups or online forums to connect with others who work in electronic warfare systems. This could provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals for the position.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal / Lead Software Engineer

Leadership and Mentoring
Embedded Software Development
RTOS (VxWorks, Embedded Linux)
C++ (14 or above)
UML and Object-Oriented Design
Software Lifecycle Management
Agile Methodologies (Scrum)
Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket, GitLab
RTCA DO-178C Compliance
MISRA C/C++ Standards
Collaboration with Hardware and Firmware Teams
Technical Communication
Project Planning and Reporting
Design Reviews and Gate Reviews

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 crucial for the position.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for developing innovative solutions in electronic warfare systems. Mention specific projects where you led a team or contributed to high-integrity environments, showcasing your ability to drive technical direction.

Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your experience with RTOSs like VxWorks or embedded Linux. Include any exposure to airborne software standards such as RTCA DO-178C, as this will demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Showcase Communication Skills: Since effective communication is key for this role, provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with multidisciplinary teams. Highlight instances where you influenced technical decisions or contributed to design reviews.

How to prepare for a job interview at Holt Recruitment

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Principal / Lead Software Engineer, you'll be expected to lead and mentor a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you motivate teams, and any specific examples of successful projects you've led.

✨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 show your knowledge of these standards. 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 discuss how you've contributed to Agile ceremonies and how they have improved project outcomes.

Principal / Lead Software Engineer
Holt Recruitment
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  • Principal / Lead Software Engineer

    Luton
    Full-Time
    48000 - 84000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-09-02

  • H

    Holt Recruitment

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