Senior Software Architect - Functional Safety - Automotive Software

Product Engineering at JLR is centred on innovation and creativity. From advanced driver assistance systems to developing the future of electric propulsion, the opportunities to create exceptional experiences for the future of motoring are wide-ranging. You will work alongside industry experts to drive product strategy, manage programs, analyse performance, and lead transformation initiatives. Exceptional careers that bring world‑renowned vehicles to life start here.

We are seeking an accomplished Senior Software Architect with deep expertise in Functional Safety to drive the design and delivery of safety‑critical software within our next‑generation Automotive and ADAS platforms. In this role, you will shape system‑level architecture, define robust safety concepts, and ensure that complex embedded software meets the highest safety and reliability standards expected in modern vehicle technology. As a technical authority, you will embed ISO 26262 principles directly into software design and development workflows, collaborating closely with cross‑functional teams to create architectures that are not only innovative but fully compliant with automotive safety lifecycle requirements. Your leadership will guide the creation of safe, scalable, and maintainable software systems, influencing key decisions across the full development process.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned embedded software engineer who has evolved into a safety‑focused architect—someone who can balance practical engineering insight with rigorous safety thinking. You will bring a strong understanding of real‑time systems, platform architecture, and safety assurance, alongside the ability to mentor teams and drive technical excellence across the organisation.

WHAT TO EXPECT

In this role, you will play a key part in delivering high‑quality outcomes and supporting the wider team through a range of responsibilities, including:

• Deliver functional safety compliance for software across JLR’s Digital Platform and vehicle programmes.
• Develop software safety concepts and translate system‑level safety goals into clear, actionable requirements.
• Maintain traceability from technical safety requirements through to software implementation.
• Conduct and review safety analyses (FMEA, FTA, DFA) for software components.
• Support ASIL decomposition and allocation across system and software architecture.
• Ensure consistent adherence to ISO 26262 throughout the software development lifecycle.
• Prepare, manage, and maintain key software safety work products (Safety Plan, Safety Case).
• Collaborate with engineering teams, support testing of safety‑critical features, and provide mentorship on functional safety best practices.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Extensive hands‑on experience in embedded software development, including C/C++, AUTOSAR, multi‑core systems, and safety‑oriented runtime environments. Proven track record in designing and delivering safety‑critical software architectures for automotive or similarly regulated domains. Deep, practical understanding of ISO 26262 (especially Part 6) and its application to software design, implementation, and verification. Strong ability to translate safety requirements into concrete architectural decisions, software design patterns, and safety‑driven development approaches. Experience implementing software safety mechanisms such as watchdogs, monitors, redundancy concepts, diagnostics, plausibility checks, and runtime monitoring. Skilled in SW‑FMEA, DFA, and contributing to FTA, with strong technical communication and the ability to collaborate effectively across system, platform, and application teams while constructively challenging design decisions.

BENEFITS

This role is rewarding in more ways than one. On top of our core offering, you will do extraordinary work with amazing people. In addition, you can expect a wide range of benefits:

• Discounted car purchase (open to family members, too).
• A 52‑week maternity leave policy and a 4‑week paternity leave policy. Other parental leave policies are available.
• A JLR company performance‑related bonus.
• An employee learning scheme providing funding for education, training and other activities which support the development of personal skills and promote lifelong learning.
• Access to open, employee‑led support and social networks.
• Comprehensive Life Assurance and Income Protection policies.

*Flexible working is offered for specific roles dependent on responsibilities. Please speak to the hiring team for details.

Creating Modern Luxury requires a modern approach to work. At JLR, hybrid working is a voluntary, non‑contractual arrangement providing employees more choice and flexibility around how, when and where they work. Some roles require more on‑site work, but details of this can be discussed with the hiring manager during the interview stage.

We work hard to nurture a culture that is inclusive and welcoming to all. We understand candidates may require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. Please discuss these with your recruiter so we can accommodate your needs. Applicants from all backgrounds are welcome. If you are unsure that you meet the full criteria of a role – but you are interested in where it could take you – we still encourage you to apply. We believe in people's ability to grow and develop within their role – it’s what makes living the exceptional with soul possible.

JLR is committed to equal opportunity for all.

WE ARE JLR

At JLR, we are passionate about our people. They are at the heart of our business. We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive culture that is representative of our global customers and the society in which we live; a culture in which every one of our employees can bring their authentic self to work, and reach their full potential.