At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead verification strategies and develop high-integrity embedded software.
- Company: Respected engineering SME specialising in safety-critical systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, private healthcare, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong career growth and ongoing professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safety-critical software while mentoring future engineers.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or Computer Science and experience in embedded software verification.
Shape how safety-critical software is verified at the highest level. We're partnering with a growing, highly respected engineering SME specialising in safety-critical embedded systems. They are looking for a Principal Software Engineer to play a key role in developing and assuring high-integrity embedded software, including a safety-certified real-time operating system.
This is a hands-on software engineering role within the verification team, combining technical leadership with deep involvement in verification, validation, and certification activities.
The Role
- Leading verification strategy and approach for embedded software systems
- Designing, developing, and maintaining test frameworks, tools, and automation
- Performing low-level software verification across multiple architectures
- Contributing directly to code-level activities (primarily C / embedded environments)
- Driving verification activities across the full software lifecycle
- Supporting certification to standards such as IEC 61508, DO-178C, ISO 26262
- Mentoring engineers and setting best practices within the verification team
- Working closely with customers to provide technical guidance and support
What We're Looking For
Essential:
- Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Maths or similar
- Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (e.g. FreeRTOS, SafeRTOS or similar)
- Strong background in embedded software engineering (C)
- Significant experience in software verification / validation
- Experience developing test tools, frameworks, or automation
- Understanding of low-level / hardware-near software behaviour
- Experience working in a controlled or safety-critical environment
- Strong communication skills and ability to engage with stakeholders
Highly Desirable:
- Knowledge of safety standards (IEC 61508, DO-178C, ISO 26262, IEC 62304)
- Experience with ARM architectures (Cortex M / A) or similar
- Understanding of debugging at processor level
- Knowledge of software lifecycle, requirements, and configuration management
- Exposure to networking, multicore systems, or embedded security
Working Environment
- Bristol-based
- Hybrid working (minimum 3 days onsite; more during onboarding)
- Collaborative, engineering-led environment with strong technical depth
Package & Benefits
- Competitive salary with annual review
- Performance-related bonus
- Generous pension contribution
- Private healthcare, income protection & life assurance
- 25+ days holiday (increasing with service)
- Flexible working hours
- Ongoing professional development and training
Principal Embedded Software Engineer in Bristol employer: IO Associates
Join a dynamic and innovative engineering SME in Bristol, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of safety-critical embedded software. With a collaborative work culture that prioritises technical excellence and employee growth, you will benefit from competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and ongoing professional development opportunities. This is an exceptional opportunity to work closely with cutting-edge technology while mentoring the next generation of engineers in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Embedded Software Engineer in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the embedded systems field, especially those who work with safety-critical software. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a GitHub repository showcasing your projects related to embedded software and verification. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do beyond your CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Ace the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge! Be ready to discuss your experience with real-time operating systems and safety standards. We want to see your passion for embedded systems shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Embedded Software Engineer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience with embedded software and safety-critical systems, and don’t forget to mention any relevant standards you’ve worked with!
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, emphasise your technical skills, especially in C programming and real-time operating systems. We want to see how you’ve applied these skills in past projects, so give us some juicy examples!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at IO Associates
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of safety-critical software and the specific standards mentioned in the job description, like IEC 61508 and DO-178C. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
Prepare to talk about your hands-on experience with embedded systems and real-time operating systems. Bring examples of projects where you've developed or verified software, especially in C, and be ready to dive into the technical details.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring and leading verification strategies, think of instances where you've taken charge or guided a team. Highlight your ability to set best practices and how you've contributed to a collaborative environment.
✨Engage with Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of low-level software behaviour and debugging. Practice explaining complex concepts clearly, as strong communication skills are essential for engaging with stakeholders and customers.
