At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and support next-gen aerospace test facilities with innovative software solutions.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce, a leader in aerospace engineering and innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible benefits, generous leave, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive workplace with global opportunities and career advancement.
- Why this job: Make an impact on cutting-edge aerospace technology while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in computer science or relevant engineering discipline required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are looking for software and systems engineers to help design, deliver and support the next generation of aerospace test facilities globally with a main focus testing of software developed by the team. The Rolls-Royce Measurement & Test Engineering organisation are responsible for designing and delivering the infrastructure required to test the next generation of gas turbine engines for both Civil and Defence applications. This includes Test Bed 80, the world's largest indoor aerospace test bed.
By joining Rolls-Royce, you'll have the opportunity to work on world-class solutions, supported by a culture that believes individuality is our greatest strength, and all perspectives, experiences and backgrounds help us innovate and enable our high-performance culture.
The Experimental Systems team are responsible for delivering a wide range of measurement and control system technologies. The team have just completed the design, installation, and commissioning of all the data systems on Test Bed 80 from concept to first engine run and helped complete the first run on the UltraFan (our most instrumented engine ever).
The software design side of the team are responsible for developing bespoke applications to support the planning, conducting, monitoring, and reporting of engine tests and their data. They are also responsible for managing the IT infrastructure supporting the test facilities. Successful candidates can either specialise in a key skill or obtain a broad range of engineering and IT skills which are required to provide data systems and services that support Rolls-Royce's core aero-engine products throughout their lifecycle.
What you will be doing:
- Building of automated test frameworks
- Development of applications and data pipelines
- Integration of IT systems including networks, data movement and storage
- Support the design and integration of new measurement and control system solutions, including high speed data acquisition
- Utilising DevOps to perform CI/CD (continuous integration and continuous delivery) and to work within an Agile framework
- Requirements capture and analysis, and the preparation of system specifications
- Implement and drive cyber security best practices
Who we're looking for:
You will have the confidence and ability to work as part of a team and take the lead on technical projects. The role will be based in Derby, but the global nature of the business requires the flexibility to support the Civil Aerospace global business model, and the requirement for short-term assignments around the globe.
Qualifications:
Qualified to degree level or equivalent in computer science or in a relevant engineering discipline. We are looking for people with the following experience and skills:
- Software testing and test automation
- Software engineering with experience in scripting and/or low-level languages including but not limited to: Python, C/C++, C#, Java, Terraform
- An appreciation of IT infrastructure including operating systems (Windows, Linux), hardware (computers, servers, and network hardware) and associated software
- Experience in requirements capture/analysis methods, such as Systems Engineering
- Experience in the development of Azure build and release pipeline
- Experience of software testing, including automated test of user interfaces
In addition, the following role specific skills are preferred:
- Experience of software vulnerability scanning using tools like SonarQube
- System and software architecture design
- Good knowledge of current products, technologies and methods
- Experience in Dev Ops and Agile work practices
- Understanding of Data Acquisition, including high speed measurement techniques
- Experience of driver development and testing for Windows and Linux
- Experience of containerisation for software development and testing
You will have a demonstrable track record of delivering under pressure to both tight and changing project deadlines. Highly self-motivated and enthusiastic, you will be able to produce work of a consistently high standard.
Regional Benefits:
Our People are our power, so when you join Rolls-Royce you are offered more than a salary. You are given a choice of flexible benefits from life insurance to gym discounts and tax free cycling.
- Generous Annual Leave
- Retirement Savings through the Rolls-Royce Retirement Savings Trust
- Group Life Assurance provides for a lump sum benefit if you die whilst employed by Rolls-Royce
- Group Income Protection provides an income in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Your Shares: Matched is a simple way to own Rolls-Royce shares and invest in our future, together. Buy one share, get one free!
- Digital GP provides a convenient way for you to access GP consultations
- Employee Assistance (EAP) and Live Well programmes
Our vision is to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that shaped our history continues into our future. Our multi-year transformation programme aims to turn Rolls-Royce into a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing company. Join us, and it can be your future vision too.
Rolls-Royce are committed to being a respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued, diverse perspectives fuel innovation, and everyone can thrive.
Closing date: 18th September 2026. As part of our selection process, candidates in certain locations may be asked to complete an online assessment, which can include cognitive and behavioural aptitude testing relevant to the role. If required, full instructions for the next steps will be provided.
Software and Systems Engineer in Derby employer: Rolls-royce
At Rolls-Royce, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in our Bristol/Hybrid location. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and opportunities to engage in meaningful projects that shape the future of technology. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, we ensure that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to our collective success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software and Systems Engineer in Derby
✨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 Rolls-royce for a Software and Systems Engineer. 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 Software and Systems Engineer in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Rolls-royce, 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 Rolls-royce, 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 Rolls-royce
✨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 Rolls-royce.
✨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 Rolls-royce. 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 Rolls-royce love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.