At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and optimise embedded firmware for cutting-edge counter-drone systems using C/C++.
- Company: Join a fast-paced organisation at the forefront of Air Intelligence and Security technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for growth, and work on mission-critical projects.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for hands-on testing and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while working with state-of-the-art hardware.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and expert-level C/C++ skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are a fast-moving, innovation driven organisation operating at the sharp end of Air Intelligence, Security, and Counter-UAS technology. Our Airspace Intelligence System fuses advanced RF sensors, passive radar technologies, and multi domain data streams to elevate situational awareness and enhance operational resilience. We are seeking an exceptional Embedded Systems Engineer to join our elite technical team. This is a high impact role where you will be instrumental in developing and optimising embedded firmware for our next-generation counter-drone platforms. You will work on mission-critical systems that demand the highest levels of performance, reliability, and security. Working with state of the art hardware, you will design and implement sophisticated embedded solutions that integrate advanced cryptographic security measures to protect sensitive military communications and operational data.
Application Deadline: 23 April 2026
Department: Software
Location: Havant
Compensation: £60,000 - £75,000 / year
Security Clearance: Due to the nature of our work, successful candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC level). This typically requires you to have been a resident in the UK for at least 3 of the last 5 years.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and optimise embedded firmware in C/C++ for defence grade UAS systems
- Implement robust cryptographic protocols and secure boot mechanisms to ensure system integrity
- Develop and maintain embedded software for RP2350-based platforms, leveraging its dual-core ARM Cortex-M33 architecture and hardware security features
- Create efficient, real-time firmware for RF signal processing and threat detection systems
- Conduct thorough code reviews, static analysis, and security audits to meet defense industry standards
- Collaborate with hardware engineers to optimise system performance and resource utilisation
- Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation for safety-critical systems
- Participate in system integration testing and field trials with military and other end users
- During the development process, it will sometimes be essential to participate, in person, in tests at Lavant
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise:
- Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or related discipline (or equivalent demonstrable experience)
- Expert-level proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems development (6+ years)
- Proven experience with ARM Cortex-M architecture, particularly the RP2350 or similar dual-core Cortex-M33 platforms
- Deep knowledge of embedded security concepts
- Proficiency in embedded debugging tools and techniques, e.g. JTAG and SWD, and the use of oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analysers, and signal sources to verify operation of RF systems in the 1GHz to 6GHz region
- Strong understanding of communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN)
- Experience with version control systems (Git) and modern development workflows
- Ability to create working firmware for a system, given a design in Altium
Highly Desirable Skills:
- Experience developing firmware for defense, aerospace, or safety-critical applications
- Some experience with Rust
- Knowledge of RF signal processing and software-defined radio concepts
- Experience using Altium for design
- Familiarity with DO-178C, IEC 61508, or similar safety standards
- Understanding of Side-Channel Attack countermeasures, and the overall security of systems containing embedded components and using RF channels
- Knowledge of secure firmware update mechanisms and anti-tamper technologies
- Experience with hardware security features, e.g. Arm TrustZone
Embedded Systems Engineer - C/C++ in Havant employer: LiveLink Aerospace Ltd
Join a pioneering organisation at the forefront of Air Intelligence and Counter-UAS technology, where your role as an Embedded Systems Engineer will directly contribute to mission-critical systems that enhance national security. With a strong emphasis on innovation, our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth and offers competitive compensation, alongside opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology in a supportive environment located in Havant. Here, you will not only develop your technical skills but also play a vital part in shaping the future of defence technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Embedded Systems Engineer - C/C++ in Havant
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with LiveLink Aerospace Ltd for a Embedded Systems Engineer - C/C++. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Embedded Systems Engineer - C/C++ in Havant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at LiveLink Aerospace Ltd, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At LiveLink Aerospace Ltd, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at LiveLink Aerospace Ltd
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with LiveLink Aerospace Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with LiveLink Aerospace Ltd. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like LiveLink Aerospace Ltd love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.