Embedded Software Engineer

Smiths Detection; Dacorum; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in Hemel Hempstead is looking for an Embedded Software Engineer. You will design, implement, and debug embedded software components using C/C++. The role involves collaboration with hardware engineers, participation in Agile development, and opportunities for real-time systems exposure. Candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in Software/Systems programming or equivalent experience, with strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn. On-site presence is required due to hardware interaction.

Benefits

Excellent training opportunities

Flexible benefits for lifestyle support

Inclusive working environment

Qualifications

• Up to 2 years of practical experience in Software/Systems programming.
• Familiarity with embedded systems.
• Exposure to microcontrollers and debugging tools.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and debugging of embedded software components.
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to understand system requirements.
• Participate in code reviews and testing to ensure software quality.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Version control (Git)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Software/Systems programming

Tools

JTAG

Oscilloscopes

Logic analysers

Python

Job description

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will contribute to the development, testing, and maintenance of embedded software solutions within our product portfolio. You will work under the guidance of senior engineers, team leads and managers, gaining exposure to real‑time systems, hardware‑software integration, and modern development practices. This role is designed to support your growth into a fully autonomous engineer through hands‑on experience, mentorship and structured development and would suit aspiring software engineers with up to 2 years experience.

Duties

• Assist in the design, implementation, and debugging of embedded software components using C/C++ within RTOS & Linux environment.
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to understand system requirements and constraints.
• Participate in code reviews, unit testing, and integration testing to ensure software quality.
• Maintain and update existing codebases under supervision.
• Document software designs, test results, and technical decisions clearly and concisely.
• Learn and apply software development processes, including version control, issue tracking, and CI/CD pipelines.
• Engage in sprint planning, stand‑ups, and retrospectives as part of an Agile development team.
• Seek feedback and actively participate in technical discussions and learning opportunities.

Please note, we are unable to consider one who requires sponsorship now or in the future.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Software / Systems programming (or up to 2 years of equivalent practical experience).
• Familiarity with C/C++ programming and basic understanding of embedded systems.
• Exposure to microcontrollers, peripherals, debugging tools & equipment (e.g., JTAG, oscilloscopes, logic analysers).
• Understanding of software development lifecycle and version control systems (e.g., Git).
• Strong problem‑solving skills and willingness to learn from feedback.
• Competent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts clearly and concise.
• Must be able to obtain BPSS clearance on joining and capable of obtaining SC security clearance.
• Regular on‑site presence at our Hemel Hempstead site will be expected due to the need for close interaction with target hardware.

Desirable

• Internship or academic project experience involving embedded software.
• Exposure to RTOS concepts and / or real‑time constraints.
• Basic knowledge of communication protocols (e.g., I2C, SPI, UART).
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python) for test automation or tooling.

Additional Information

Join us and we’ll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You’ll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You’ll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective. Join us and work for a world‑leader, with the benefits and training to reward your dedication and skills. Be part of a team where we are making the world a safer place.

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our careers website.

Embedded Software Engineer • Hemel Hempstead, England, United Kingdom