Lead Software Engineer

Software Team Lead – Real-Time Embedded C (Safety-Critical) Location: Cheltenham Salary: Competitive, DOE Security Clearance: SC Required The Opportunity My Client is a leader in aerospace and defence solutions, and they are seeking an experienced Software Team Lead to drive the development of a real-time, safety-critical embedded C application for a nose wheel steering system. You’ll lead a team of talented engineers through the full software lifecycle: deriving requirements, designing, implementing, and verifying a high-reliability, DO-178C Level A compliant system. This role blends technical excellence and leadership, ensuring safety, quality, and innovation in a cutting-edge aerospace system. What You’ll Do Technical Leadership: * Lead the design, development, and verification of bare-metal real-time software in C * Ensure DO-178C Level A compliance including traceability, testing, and documentation * Conduct design and code reviews, maintain coding standards and quality Project Management & Team Leadership: * Collaborate with hardware, systems, and test teams for seamless integration * Report progress to stakeholders and support program reviews * Foster effective communication and knowledge sharing within the team What they are looking for. Technical Expertise: * Proven experience in bare-metal real-time embedded C development * Deep understanding of DO-178C Level A standards and safety-critical certification * Familiarity with MCDC testing, debugging tools, hardware interfaces, and safety analysis Leadership Skills: * Experience leading software teams in safety-critical or aerospace environments * Strong organizational and project management skills * Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities Desirable: * Aerospace or high-reliability system experience * Knowledge of other safety-critical standards (ARP4754, ARINC 653, DO-254, DO-248) * Experience with hardware/software integration and HIL testing Why Join Us: * Lead innovative projects in aerospace and defence * Work with a highly skilled, collaborative team * Opportunity to influence safety-critical software development at the forefront of technology