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 Ltd
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 and dynamic work environment. Join our passionate team and contribute to groundbreaking projects that aim to revolutionise the semiconductor market while enjoying unique perks like pizza pay days and opportunities for personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Embedded Software Engineer in Cardiff
✨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 Space Forge Ltd for a Embedded Software 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 Embedded Software Engineer in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Space Forge Ltd, 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 Space Forge Ltd, 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 Space Forge Ltd
✨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 Space Forge Ltd.
✨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 Space Forge Ltd. 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 Space Forge Ltd love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
