Embedded Software Engineer

DEFENCE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY; Idmiston; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A government research agency in Idmiston seeks an embedded engineer to guide novel technology research supporting national security. Candidates should possess strong skills in C, C++, DSP, and system firmware. The role requires UK nationality due to security clearance needs. Competitive salary of £37,769 - £43,815, with additional benefits such as flexible working and opportunities for development.

Benefits

Pension with employer contribution

Flexible working hours

Annual leave of 25 days, rising to 30

Support for charterships and apprenticeships

Qualifications

• Experience working on complex engineering or technology problems.
• Tenacity to collate information ensuring high-quality technical products.
• Working experience in a defence environment.

Responsibilities

• Guide research of novel techniques for sensitive challenges.
• Support national security initiatives and improve military capabilities.
• Collaborate with partners in government and academia.

Skills

C, C++ or Rust with embedded experience

Knowledge of microprocessors/microcontrollers

Experience with Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

Experience with Open CPI or similar SDR framework

Embedded testing methodologies

Knowledge of Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS)

Job description

Overview

We take cutting edge Defence and Security research across the cyber domain and operationalise the research into novel and unique capabilities. These solutions support the military and wider government in solving real-world problems today with an impact and reach unique to the cyber domain. We deliver engineering on a bespoke scale for discerning customers in unique deployment circumstances. Engineers with creativity to fit what we do to meet customer needs and to spot where our processes can be made more efficient are an excellent fit. Much of the detail of what we do is classified. We work across government with many partners and you might solve problems in the laboratory or with engineers and scientists from UK government departments. The impact of our work for UK forces is widely recognised by those who know where to look. Dstl will give you the chance to work on unique capabilities, develop your technical knowledge and collaborate with colleagues to protect the UK through supporting current and future cyber operations. Find out more within the candidate pack on Civil Service Jobs. Dstl recognises the importance of diversity and inclusion and aims to build an inclusive working environment where each employee fulfils their potential.

In this role you will

• Bring your background and thinking to guide the research of novel techniques and capabilities to work on a variety of exciting and challenging problems that owing to their sensitivity cannot be done elsewhere.
• Make a difference and take pride in your work; our activities improve the front-line capability of the UK Armed Forces, help keep British citizens safe, and support national prosperity.
• Form links across Dstl, Government, industry and academia. We work with an array of partners at home and abroad, including the Armed Forces, other Government departments and industry.
• Develop your career in exciting new areas that are growing to meet groundbreaking challenges.
• Support group-wide technical activities such as technical forums, monthly meets, lightning talks and mentoring of junior staff. We are proud of our impartial status and doing things for the right reasons.

Technical Skills

• Embedded engineer with experience/knowledge of some or all of the following:
• C, C++ or Rust with embedded experience
• Knowledge of microprocessors/microcontrollers
• Experience with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and the required maths (e.g., Linear Algebra, signal processing algorithms and transformations, matrix computations)
• Experience with Open Component Portability Infrastructure (Open CPI) or a similar embedded Software Defined Radio (SDR) framework
• Embedded testing methodologies
• Knowledge of Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS)

Essential Experience

• Worked on complex and non-routine problems, drawing together disparate information and making meaningful technical assessments, ideally in an engineering or technology environment
• A persistence and tenacity to cohere people and information that assures technical products to a high level
• Experience of working in a defence environment

Important Information

Our work in defence, security and intelligence requires our employees to be UK Nationals who can gain a high level of security clearance. Only UK Nationals will be able to apply. If you are international or dual-national, consider applying to any of our government, security or defence partners.

This role will require full UK security clearance and you should have resided in the UK for the past 5 years. For some roles Developed Vetting may also be required, requiring 10 years of UK residence.

If you are a current Dstl employee you must ensure your line manager is aware of your application.

Working Arrangements

At Dstl, our vision is a modern way of working. This job requires attendance at a Dstl location or Government Departments, including the broader MoD or Delivery and Mission Partners’ premises, for about 60% of your working time.

Salary and Benefits

• £37,769 - £43,815. Salary is dependent on experience and skills.
• New skill-set allowance may apply (£1,000-£4,500 per annum) payable after 3 months from joining.
• Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97% to the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.

Benefits

• Financial: Pension, annual bonus vouchers, rental deposit scheme and cycle to work scheme, plus opportunities with Vivup Benefits
• Flexible working: Compressed hours, job shares, annualised hours, and the ability to bank hours with some month-to-month flexibility
• Working hours: Flexible start/finish times; ability to bank hours in a 12-month period
• Annual leave: 25 days pro rata, rising to 30 after 5 years, plus 8 public holidays; option to buy/sell up to 5 days
• Family: Maternity/adoption/shared parental leave with pay and statutory provisions
• Learning and Development: Support for charterships, accreditations, fully funded apprenticeships up to master’s level; Civil Service Learning access
• Facilities: Onsite parking, EV charging, restaurants, cafés and gyms

How to Apply and Selection

For assistance during the recruitment process, contact the Dstl Recruitment Team at [e-mail].

Sifting begins 6 October 2025; interviews from 20 November 2025. Closing date 5 October. If shortlisted for interview, a 10-minute presentation on a technical project you are proud of may be required. Feedback is provided after interviews/assessments.

Security and Nationality

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check and meet security requirements (Developed Vetting as applicable). See the Vetting Charter and baseline personnel security standards for details. This vacancy is open to UK nationals only; dual nationals are not eligible.

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code governs standards of behaviour. We recruit on merit and commitment to equal opportunities. The Civil Service embraces diversity, supports the Disability Confident Scheme, and offers redeployment interviews for eligible civil servants.