Embedded Software Apprenticeship in Malvern

At QinetiQ we are creating a workplace that is inclusive; where our differences are not only embraced but make us stronger. A place where we can connect with each other and benefit from the experiences and thinking from people with varied backgrounds, and at different stages in their careers.

About the team Software Engineering:

The QinetiQ Software Engineering discipline supports a broad range of our capabilities and is at the forefront of developing innovative software solutions to meet the demanding requirements of our customers and partner organisations. We are a group of professional software developers and engineers who work across the air, land, maritime and space domains of the business. We use the latest software development technologies and techniques to develop innovative software solutions.

Our Software Engineering teams are looking to recruit proactive, passionate and innovative people who are looking to help improve the way we work today & shape the solutions of tomorrow. Our Software Engineering teams are composed of a wide variety of people from apprentices enrolled in the Early Careers programme through to our subject matter experts, software architects and technical leaders, and are drawn from a variety of STEM related backgrounds, with engineers, scientists and mathematicians represented amongst our ranks.

At QinetiQ, we develop a broad range of Research & Development (R&D), product and services projects from mission systems to simulation & training. Software Engineering encompasses everything from engineering embedded, real-time systems to developing cloud-based software services. We work in multidisciplinary teams to develop complex systems for cutting edge applications such as autonomous vehicles, high end cryptography and high precision satellite navigation. We are involved in some of most challenging, high profile science and technology programmes in the UK and overseas.

What will I be doing?

You will perform a wide variety of software tasks, throughout the whole of software lifecycle and solve technically challenging problems with a particular focus on embedded software development to support the delivery of QinetiQ projects. You will work closely with clients and specialists from across several disciplines including Radio Frequency (RF), electronics and Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) design, digital signal processing (DSP), secure products, navigation products and cryptography.

As part of a team, you will work throughout the engineering lifecycle, applying rigorous engineering practices; analysing, designing, implementing, testing, supporting and maintaining novel embedded solutions that solve mission-critical problems for our customers. You will be given 20% of your working week to cover University commitments as you work towards a degree.

Examples of areas that you could be contributing to:

• Some of most challenging, high-profile science and technology programmes in the UK and overseas
• Developing robust global navigation systems to support our armed forces
• Supporting test and evaluation activities for novel equipment trials and military exercises both in the UK and internationally
• Delivering reliable and resilient systems for space missions

Location: You will be based at the QinetiQ site in Malvern, Worcestershire. The site is set at the base of the Malvern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Malvern lies approximately 8 miles southwest of Worcester and 30 miles southwest of Birmingham.

Academic requirements: The BEng (Hons) Electronic and Computer Engineering Degree Apprenticeship will be delivered by Gloucestershire College in partnership with UWE Bristol. Study will be split between the Gloucester College Cheltenham Campus and UWE campus in Bristol. Details about the course content and the entry requirements can be found at the following link: Embedded Electronic Systems Design & Development Engineer Apprenticeship.

Lectures and on-campus days will typically take place within the working week. The course includes a mixture of on-line and in-person learning and so travel to the College and University Campuses will be required. Costs of travel to and from University/College and course fees will be covered.

Continued participation in the apprenticeship scheme and employment at QinetiQ, is dependent on consistent attendance at lectures and course activities, as well as passing grades in exams and coursework.

Entry Requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grade 9 - 4 or A* - C including maths, English and science, technology or engineering related subjects
• A Levels at grade C or above in both a mathematical based subject and a science, tech, engineering or additional mathematics related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC
• Learners must have the equivalent to 112 UCAS points.

Nice-to-Have Experience:

• Have a strong interest and/or experience within Embedded Software Engineering
• Some knowledge of at least one embedded or low-level software language
• Work experience within a computing or engineering industry
• Extra-curricular and/or hobbies in Software Engineering or Computer Science, FPGA, Very High-Speed Integrated Circuit Hardware Description Language (VHDL) or Real Time Operating System (RTOS) software experience.

How to apply: Please fill in the application and include both a CV and a covering letter.

Our Benefits (the list is not exhaustive):

• On demand learning, access to courses, modules, and lectures via multiple digital learning platforms
• Coaching and Mentoring
• 25 days annual holiday excluding bank holiday
• Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
• Flexible Benefits package
• Employee discount portal
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee-led networks

Security: Many of our roles at QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting. Applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment, subject to approval. Many roles are also subject to restrictions on access to information, which means factors such as nationality, previous nationalities held and the country in which you were born may impact your role.

Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum. Further guidance regarding clearances can be found: UKSV National Security Vetting Solution: guidance for applicants - GOV.UK.

Please also be aware that under immigration rules, our Early Careers roles do not meet the legal threshold for candidates who are resident in the UK on student visas.

Recruitment Process: We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.

QinetiQ is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, come and be part of our team!

Closing date for new applicants: 22nd May 2026