At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop embedded firmware for cutting-edge photonic devices.
- Company: Join Plessey, a leader in next-gen light-based technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art facilities in Plymouth.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects shaping the future of computing.
- Qualifications: Experience in embedded software development and understanding of hardware design.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We’re building the hardware foundation for next-era computing. Plessey is a world-leading technology company driving the next generation of photonic devices and systems. With over 70 years of innovation, we combine research, materials science, process engineering, and manufacturing under one roof. We’re recognised as a global authority in microLED displays, optical computing, and optical interconnects. Join us to work on breakthrough technologies shaping the future of light-based technology and computing.
Location: Located at our head office and state-of-the-art fabrication facility in Plymouth.
About the Role: We are seeking a senior Embedded Software Engineer to join the Product Development team and contribute to embedded firmware development and hardware-software integration. This is a hands-on role, working closely with the Principal Engineer and Senior Hardware Engineer to translate system architecture into reliable embedded implementations across prototypes, demos, and product platforms.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, implement, and maintain embedded firmware in C/C++.
- Develop and maintain low-level drivers and application firmware.
- Support bootloader development and firmware update functionality.
- Implement firmware robustness, error handling, and recovery paths.
- Support firmware bring-up on new hardware.
- Debug hardware/firmware issues involving power, clocks, interfaces, and timing.
- Work with schematics, PCBs, and lab equipment during development and debugging.
- Support validation and test readiness of embedded systems.
- Translate architectural intent into working embedded implementations.
- Take ownership of defined subsystems with appropriate guidance.
- Contribute to technical documentation and knowledge transfer.
- Support integration with test environments and higher-level software systems.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise:
- Background in Electronic Engineering or similar discipline.
- Experience in embedded software development (C/C++).
- Experience with microcontrollers (e.g. STM32 or similar).
- Experience with bare-metal and/or RTOS-based systems.
- Comfortable reading schematics and understanding hardware design.
- Experience with board bring-up and low-level debugging.
- Experience using SWD/JTAG, logic analysers, and oscilloscopes.
- Understanding of common interfaces (USB, SPI, I²C/I3C, UART).
Advantage:
- Familiarity with embedded Linux or Zephyr.
- Experience supporting prototype, demo, or pre-production systems.
Embedded Software Engineer in Plymouth employer: Plessey Semiconductors Ltd
Contact Detail:
Plessey Semiconductors Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Embedded Software Engineer in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Plessey on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role in the Product Development team.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your embedded software projects, especially those involving C/C++ and microcontrollers. This will give you an edge during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Brush up on your debugging skills with tools like SWD/JTAG and oscilloscopes. Being able to discuss your troubleshooting process confidently can really impress the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Plessey team and contributing to the future of light-based technology.
We think you need these skills to ace Embedded Software Engineer in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in embedded software development, especially with C/C++. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about working with us at Plessey and how your background in Electronic Engineering makes you a great fit for the role. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: When filling out your application, make sure to mention your experience with microcontrollers and debugging tools like SWD/JTAG. We love seeing candidates who are hands-on and familiar with the hardware side of things!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Plessey Semiconductors Ltd
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your embedded software development skills, especially in C/C++. Familiarise yourself with microcontrollers like STM32 and be ready to discuss your experience with low-level drivers and firmware robustness.
✨Get Hands-On with Hardware
Since this role involves hardware-software integration, it’s crucial to understand schematics and PCB design. Spend some time reviewing any relevant projects you've worked on that involved debugging hardware issues or using tools like SWD/JTAG and oscilloscopes.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect to tackle questions that assess your debugging skills and how you handle firmware bring-up on new hardware. Think of specific examples where you successfully resolved complex issues and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Show Your Passion for Innovation
Plessey is all about driving the next generation of technology, so express your enthusiasm for working on cutting-edge projects. Share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to advancing light-based technology and computing.