At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop embedded software for ground and space applications using C/C++.
- Company: Join Space Forge, a pioneering advanced materials company revolutionising the semiconductor market.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexitime, hybrid working, 33 days holiday, and mental health support.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in space manufacturing while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in embedded C/C++, hardware communication protocols, and full software development lifecycle.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 € per year.
Space Forge is a fast-growing advanced materials company. Our goal is to exploit the extreme temperature, microgravity and ultra-high vacuum conditions available in low earth orbit (LEO) to manufacture materials that cannot readily be grown terrestrially. Returning these materials to earth, we aim to revolutionise the semiconductor market and to make space work for humanity. To achieve this, we have developed a range of technologies including the world’s first returnable and reusable satellite platform, the ForgeStar®.
We are looking to hire a full time mid to senior level Embedded Software Engineer - Space to join our Software team.
What will you do?
- Embedded software design for deployment in ground and space applications
- Coding in embedded C/C++
- Documentation and testing
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as systems and electronics engineering to deliver great software design that meets the requirements of the mission
Key responsibilities of the role
- Taking software requirements for a complete subsystem (e.g. motor driver or communication system), and design and build software to meet those requirements
- Reviewing electronics schematics, processor datasheets, peripheral datasheets, and peripheral interface (protocol) definition documents
- Writing documentation covering the architecture, design, APIs, protocols, and implementation
- Build unit tests, integration tests, subsystem tests, and full-system tests. This will include writing system and subsystem test scripts. It will also include writing and executing manual testing plans
- Mentoring members of the team, sharing your knowledge and experience
- Peer review of design and code in line with Agile PR practices
Technical skills
- Developing in C/C++ for embedded Real Time operating Systems (RTOS) [Essential]
- Experience with hardware level communication protocols (e.g. CAN, QSPI, UART) [Essential]
- Experience of implementing software at the HAL, for example to access low-level microprocessor registers for ARM Cortex M series and microprocessor peripherals, such as DMA, Ethernet MAC
- Demonstrable experience of working across the full software lifetime development cycle
- Ability to understand electronics schematics and device datasheets
- Experience with UML
- Use of Python for test scripts and data analysis
Soft skills
- Knowledge of Agile and Waterfall working practices
- Experience with Slack, Jira and Microsoft365 as productivity tools
Why Space Forge?
We believe in a future where our most polluting industries are moved off the planet, built for sustainability, and returned back to Earth for the benefit of all. Space is the next step for our manufacturing needs. At Space Forge, we believe in creating the best possible workplace that suits every single person that joins us.
- Flexitime hours - 40 to be worked across Monday-Friday as fits both your needs and the needs of the role
- Hybrid remote working in the UK possible with high spec equipment offered
- 33 days holiday including bank holidays
- Pension scheme at 4% matched
- Charity or cause you’re passionate about? Up to 5 volunteering days a year to support the things closest to you and make an impact
- Super cool office and factory - the coffee is on us (and it’s certified carbon neutral too, our snazzy machine does anything from the humble americano to a superb flat white)
- Pizza pay day - okay, it’s not always pizza, but if you’re at the office on pay day, lunch is on us
- Your mental health is important! You’ll have access to Spill and Health Assured- an all-in-one mental health support platform offering completely anonymous therapy sessions to our whole team
- Working with a passionate, friendly and highly motivated team
- Maternity / Paternity benefits beyond statutory
Salary range for this role: £45,000 - £60,000 per annum, depending on knowledge, experience and skills.
We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and that starts with hiring diversely. However you identify, and whatever background you bring with you, we welcome you to apply for a role at Space Forge. If there are any adjustments that would help improve your experience with Space Forge, please do let us know when you apply.
The closing date for applications is Monday 25th May 2026.
Embedded Software Engineer in Cardiff employer: Space Forge Inc
At Space Forge, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters innovation and collaboration in the exciting field of advanced materials. Our flexible working hours, hybrid remote options, and commitment to employee well-being, including mental health support and generous holiday allowances, create a supportive work culture. Join us in our mission to revolutionise manufacturing in space while enjoying unique perks like pizza pay days and opportunities for personal growth within a passionate team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Embedded Software Engineer in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Space Forge 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
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a GitHub repository showcasing your embedded C/C++ projects. This is your chance to demonstrate your coding chops and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Brush up on common interview questions related to embedded systems and software design. Mock interviews with friends can help you feel more confident when it’s your turn.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Embedded Software Engineer in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights all the relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We want to see your embedded C/C++ expertise and any experience with hardware communication protocols front and centre!
Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on any cool projects, especially those involving embedded software or real-time operating systems, make sure to mention them! We love seeing practical applications of your skills.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application answers, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that directly address the key responsibilities and technical skills mentioned in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Space Forge.
How to prepare for a job interview at Space Forge Inc
✨Know Your Embedded C/C++ Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your embedded C/C++ skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with real-time operating systems and how you've implemented software at the hardware abstraction layer. They’ll want to see that you can not only code but also understand the underlying hardware.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Communication Protocols
Since you'll be working with hardware-level communication protocols like CAN, QSPI, and UART, it’s crucial to have a solid grasp of these. Prepare to explain how you've used these protocols in past projects and be ready to tackle any technical questions related to them.
✨Show Off Your Testing Skills
Testing is a big part of the role, so be prepared to discuss your experience with unit tests, integration tests, and subsystem tests. Bring examples of test scripts you've written in Python and how they contributed to the overall quality of your software.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Space Forge values collaboration, so highlight your experience working in cross-functional teams. Share examples of how you've mentored others or participated in peer reviews, and show that you’re not just a lone wolf but someone who thrives in a team environment.
