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- Tasks: Lead software design and architecture for high-precision laboratory instruments.
- Company: Global tech business in Buckinghamshire focused on science and healthcare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, innovative projects, and a chance to mentor a talented team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in science and technology while driving innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in Physics, Mathematics, or Engineering; 10+ years of software experience.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We’re hiring a Principal Software Engineer to join a global technology business based in Buckinghamshire. The company designs and builds high-precision laboratory instruments used in science, healthcare, and environmental testing.
What You’ll Do as a Principal Software Engineer:
- Lead the design and architecture of software systems across the full stack, from embedded C/C++ firmware controlling hardware to high-level C#/.NET applications.
- Mentor and guide a multidisciplinary team of software, firmware, and electronics engineers.
- Apply physics-based thinking to develop algorithms that turn raw sensor data into meaningful scientific results.
- Work closely with hardware teams to bring up new boards, debug complex opto-electronic systems, and integrate hardware with software seamlessly.
- Drive innovation in next-generation products, particularly in areas like thermal analysis and materials characterisation.
- Support manufacturing and production while collaborating cross-functionally on high-level software development.
Requirement for a Principal Software Engineer:
- Degree in Physics, Mathematics, or Engineering with a strong physics component.
- 10+ years of commercial software experience with a proven track record of delivering complex systems.
- Expert-level skills in C#/.NET and strong experience in C/C++ for embedded systems/firmware.
- Experience leading or mentoring multidisciplinary technical teams.
- Background in scientific instrumentation, industrial automation, or similar environments where software interacts with hardware.
- Strong understanding of communication protocols (I2C, SPI, USB, Ethernet) and the ability to read schematics/datasheets for development and debugging.
- Experience defining software standards, driving Agile processes, and implementing CI/CD pipelines.
If you are interested in the Principal Software Engineer in Buckinghamshire, please apply today!
Principal Software Engineer employer: Octagon Group
Contact Detail:
Octagon Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the tech industry, especially those who work in scientific instrumentation or similar fields. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a GitHub repository showcasing your projects, especially those involving C#/.NET and embedded systems. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do beyond your CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Ace the interview by practising common technical questions related to software architecture and algorithms. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable with the format.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Principal Software Engineer role. Highlight your expertise in C#/.NET and C/C++, and don’t forget to mention any experience with scientific instrumentation or hardware integration.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Talk about your leadership experience and how you've mentored teams in the past, as well as your passion for driving innovation in software development.
Showcase Your Projects: If you’ve worked on relevant projects, make sure to include them in your application. Whether it’s developing algorithms for sensor data or leading a team through a complex system delivery, real examples will help us see your capabilities in action.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the Principal Software Engineer position. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Octagon Group
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your C#/.NET and C/C++ skills. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these technologies, especially in embedded systems. The more you can demonstrate your expertise, the better!
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring a multidisciplinary team, prepare examples of how you've led teams in the past. Think about challenges you faced and how you guided your team through them. This will show that you're not just a tech whiz but also a great leader.
✨Understand the Science Behind the Software
Given the focus on scientific instrumentation, be prepared to discuss how your physics background has influenced your software development. Bring examples of how you've applied physics-based thinking to solve complex problems in your previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Communication Protocols
Since the job requires a strong understanding of communication protocols like I2C, SPI, and USB, make sure you can explain how you've used these in past projects. Being able to read schematics and datasheets is crucial, so have some examples ready to discuss.
