Lead Software Engineer - DO-178C / Embedded C

Location: Cheltenham (hybrid working)

Duration: 6 month contract

Inside IR35

Role details:
Our client is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to support the development of mission- and safety-critical systems within the defence and aerospace sector. This contract role is suited to an experienced embedded software professional with strong real-time programming expertise and comprehensive knowledge of DO-178C Level A compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

Derive high-level and low-level software requirements
Author software architectures and detailed design documentation
Develop bare-metal, real-time embedded software using C and C++
Implement safety-critical software for an embedded modular platform
Manage activities across the full software development lifecycle
Ensure compliance with DO-178C Level A processes, including traceability, testing and quality assurance
Conduct design reviews, code reviews, verification and validation activities
Collaborate with hardware, systems and test engineering teams to support effective integration

Job Requirements:

Significant experience developing bare-metal, real-time embedded systems in C
Strong proficiency in Embedded C/C++ and real-time software design
In-depth knowledge of DO-178C Level A standards, processes and documentation
Experience working with safety-critical systems and certification requirements, including MC/DC testing
Understanding of RTOS concepts and embedded modular platforms
Familiarity with debugging tools, hardware interfaces and safety analysis techniques
Experience with software requirements, design, implementation, testing and verification
Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills

Desirable Experience:

Experience within aerospace, defence or another high-reliability engineering environment
Knowledge of related safety-critical standards, such as ARP4754, ARINC 653, DO-254 or DO-248
Understanding of hardware and software integration and hardware-in-the-loop testing
Experience reporting project status and contributing to programme reviews
This is an opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced safety-critical technology used across defence, aerospace and unmanned systems. If you have the required Embedded C/C++ and DO-178C expertise, apply now