Lead Software Engineer (All genders)

Description

The company builds autonomous defence platforms and AI-driven software for NATO Allies and their partners, designed to operate in demanding environments.

Its maritime family of systems is AI-enabled, built for reliable performance at sea, and combines hardware and software for scalable ISR and strike operations.

The role leads multi-domain software work for a growing fleet of autonomous vessels and ground systems, spanning GUIs, middleware, embedded systems, firmware and simulation.

You will be the single point of contact for all maritime software, working with design teams across the UK and Europe, directing the roadmap for existing products and leading new ones.

You will also manage third-party subcontractors and suppliers, and push automation forward using current technology.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical coordination across several product developments.
• Lead the roadmap for existing products and new software developments, at application and embedded levels.
• Apply best-practice design and implementation to emerging technology.
• Improve software engineering processes and practices.
• Produce high-level conceptual designs for new software products.
• Run make-vs-buy trade-off studies and negotiate with suppliers and subcontractors.
• Advise the Systems and Electrical teams on hosting platforms, from PCs to embedded systems.
• Take part in regular field tests and demonstrations with defence partners.

Requirements

• Proven experience leading complex integration and development programmes.
• Sound software engineering principles and practices, with knowledge of civilian, automotive and defence software standards.
• Knowledge of multi-stage verification and validation, and of simulation tools and targets from software regression through to Hardware-in-Loop.
• Understanding of Ethernet and Fieldbus communication, real-time control techniques and their limits, and working knowledge of Linux application, embedded and firmware platforms.
• Strong problem-solving skills in high-pressure, resource-constrained settings, and good collaborative communication.
• Eligibility for UK Security Clearance.
• Ability to travel to South West England when required.
• Send your CV in English.

Conditions

Travel to South West England is required when needed.

Candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain the security clearance required for this role. Details are provided during recruitment.

Equal opportunity: applications from all genders are welcome.

Benefits

• Your work protects personnel and supports European and national sovereignty.
• You will work with leading engineers on autonomous systems, advanced propulsion and secure cyber platforms.
• The team works at a fast pace and collaborates closely, with bold ideas backed by substantial R&D funding.