Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in developing innovative software solutions for weapon systems simulation.
- Company: Join MBDA, a top defence organisation supporting the Armed Forces and national security.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, enhanced parental leave, and fantastic site facilities.
- Why this job: Be part of cutting-edge technology in defence, with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Qualifications: Strong background in C# and C++, with leadership and problem-solving skills required.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we value diversity and support unique perspectives.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 78000 £ per year.
We have a great opportunity for a proactive and passionate Lead Software Developer to join our expanding team in Weapon Systems Simulation and Experimentation (WSSE), delivering innovative solutions to provide an end to end representation of the weapon system!
Salary: Circa £65,000 depending on experience
Location: Stevenage or Bristol (we may be able to offer a relocation package for this role)
Dynamic (hybrid) working: 3-4 days per week on-site due to workload classification
Security Clearance: British Citizen. Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by the MBDA Personnel Security Team.
The opportunity: This is a hands-on role working collaboratively with Project Leads, Simulation Architects and the wider MBDA project team, with the development of synthetic environments using the C family of programming languages. The role combines aspects of technical leadership, project management and team building. WSSE are integral in the development of weapon systems and system architectures, and as a result we have developed a capability supporting developments across the full product life cycle. The team integrates real products, models and synthetic environments to provide visualisations, demonstrations, verification & validation as well as training capability and support.
This role will offer you the opportunity to:
- Grow your skills and abilities, whilst supporting the full MBDA development lifecycle.
- Develop a broader view of systems of systems engineering and drive the technical innovation through a synthetic environment.
- Work on the worlds most advanced defence systems from the initial concepts with advanced visualisation techniques (AR/VR) and demonstrations all the way through to in service support and training.
- Be part of the team developing new innovative ways and capabilities to support weapon systems development for domestic and international customers.
What we're looking for from you:
A Lead Software Engineer who is adaptable and creative in their approach to lead a small software development team and advance the technical development of our synthetic environments / simulation components for one of MBDA's weapon systems. A strong background in software (C# and C++), and its realisation and system-wide impact, with a robust approach to problem solving. You will have an open approach to software development, as the software you develop can be used across multiple products and projects so strong communication skills are essential. Exposure to real-time software development and simulation standards (DIS and HLA) would be advantageous however it is not crucial.
Interested? Click Apply Now!
Our company: MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom.
What we can offer you:
- Company Bonus: Bonus of up to 21% of base salary
- Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
- Enhanced parental leave: offers up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave. Enhancements are available for paternity leave, neonatal leave and fertility testing and treatments.
- Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more.
- Training and Development: Excellent career progression, training and career development opportunities.
Our Business: We respect new perspectives and experiences, and we value our collaborative ways of working. We are committed to growing and supporting diversity in our workforce and ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to reach their potential. MBDA is proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity and more. We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process. We also welcome applicants who are looking for flexible working arrangements.
Lead Software Developer employer: MBDA
Contact Detail:
MBDA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Software Developer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, particularly C# and C++. Brush up on your coding skills and consider working on personal projects or contributing to open-source projects that utilise these languages to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current employees or professionals in the defence sector. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with individuals who work at MBDA or in similar roles. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with team leadership and project management. Think of specific examples where you successfully led a team or managed a project, as this role requires strong leadership skills. Be ready to articulate how you foster collaboration and innovation within a team.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in simulation technology and synthetic environments. Being knowledgeable about advancements in AR/VR and real-time software development will not only impress your interviewers but also show your passion for the field and your commitment to staying updated.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Software Developer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in software development, particularly with C# and C++. Emphasise any leadership roles or projects that showcase your ability to lead a team and drive technical innovation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for the role and the defence industry. Mention specific projects or experiences that align with the job description, especially those involving simulation environments or real-time software development.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've approached complex problems in previous roles. Highlight your adaptability and creativity in leading software development projects, as these are key qualities the company is looking for.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since strong communication skills are essential for this role, include examples of how you've effectively communicated with team members or stakeholders in past projects. This will demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively within a team.
How to prepare for a job interview at MBDA
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
As a Lead Software Developer, it's crucial to demonstrate your expertise in C# and C++. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied these languages, focusing on the impact of your work on system-wide performance.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership Experience
Highlight your experience in leading software development teams. Share examples of how you've successfully managed projects, fostered collaboration, and driven technical innovation within your team.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect to face technical challenges during the interview. Prepare to walk through your problem-solving process, showcasing your adaptability and creativity in overcoming obstacles in software development.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner, ensuring you can engage with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
