At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team developing world-first resilient time distribution technology.
- Company: National Physical Laboratory, a leader in precision timing and measurement science.
- Benefits: Flexible working, social activities, competitive rewards, and a focus on well-being.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on essential services that underpin modern society.
- Qualifications: Degree in Computer Science or related field; experience in software design and delivery.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About the Role
Our world-leading Time & Frequency department is seeking a Software Engineer. This is an exceptional opportunity to join the global authority in precision timing at a defining moment for UK digital infrastructure. Backed by a government investment of £180 million in the National Timing Centre (NTC) programme, we are developing a world‑first resilient time distribution capability that will provide industry with a robust complement to satellite systems such as GPS – which are increasingly vulnerable to disruption from solar storms, jamming and spoofing. This will underpin essential services, including (though not limited to):
- Telecommunications
- Online banking
- Emergency response
- Transport networks
- Wider digital and data‑driven operations
Together, these services form the backbone of modern society – and you will help ensure they remain secure, reliable and robust even if global navigation satellite systems fail.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborating with senior stakeholders to ensure that software aligns with business strategy
- Working cross‑functionally to gather project requirements, analyse feasibility, and provide technical recommendations
- Working as an Agile Software team, taking responsibility for your own deliverables, and reviewing the work of others
- Code reviews to ensure cleanliness, efficiency and quality through testing and debugging, and adherence of standards throughout the software development cycle
- Risk communication and mitigation
- Explaining complex tech concepts and advisory to internal and external stakeholders, from technical and non‑technical backgrounds
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:
- Recent and proven experience in design and delivery of production‑ready software
- Degree‑level educated in Computer Science, Mathematics (or closely related discipline), or equivalent experience
- Risk management and communication
Essential Technical Skills
- Python
- GIT / Linux
- DevOps methodology
- Azure
- Docker
Highly‑Desirable Technical Skills
- Telegraf/Influx/Grafana stack
- CI/CD practices
Security & Clearance
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. For this role in the Time & Frequency department, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance. Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world‑leading centre of excellence that provides cutting‑edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity. As part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. We are committed to the health and well‑being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work‑life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.
Software Engineer - National Timing Centre in Teddington employer: National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
At the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), we pride ourselves on being a world-leading employer that champions innovation and excellence in measurement science. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our flexible working arrangements, vibrant work culture, and extensive growth opportunities, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered. Join us at the National Timing Centre, where your contributions will directly impact critical services that underpin modern society, all while working in a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates individual talents.
Contact Details:
National Physical Laboratory (NPL) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Engineer - National Timing Centre in Teddington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the National Timing Centre on LinkedIn or other platforms. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those technical interviews! Brush up on your Python, GIT, and DevOps skills. Practising coding challenges can help you feel more confident and ready to impress.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your soft skills! The role involves explaining complex tech concepts to various stakeholders, so be ready to demonstrate your communication skills during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at NPL.
We think you need these skills to ace Software Engineer - National Timing Centre in Teddington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with Python, GIT, and Agile methodologies. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Software Engineer in our Time & Frequency department.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, share examples of how you've tackled complex technical challenges in the past. We love seeing candidates who can communicate their thought process clearly, especially when it comes to risk management and mitigation.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We appreciate clarity, especially when explaining tech concepts, as you'll need to do this with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the essential technical skills listed in the job description, especially Python, GIT, and DevOps methodologies. Brush up on your knowledge of Azure and Docker too, as these will likely come up during technical discussions.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you've tackled complex problems in previous projects. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to analyse feasibility and provide technical recommendations, as this aligns with the role's responsibilities.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll be explaining complex tech concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Use simple language to convey your ideas, and be ready to adapt your explanations based on your audience.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
This role involves working cross-functionally, so be ready to discuss your experience collaborating with teams. Highlight any Agile methodologies you've used and how you’ve contributed to code reviews, ensuring quality and efficiency in software development.
