Embedded Software Engineer

Randstad Digital; Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading robotics firm is seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to develop and validate safety-critical software for advanced robotic systems. The role involves designing and integrating high-performance embedded software, working on real-time control systems, and advancing human-robot collaboration. Candidates should have over 5 years of experience in C/C++ development, particularly in safety-critical domains. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge robotics with a significant real-world impact, collaborating with a talented team.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in C/C++ and embedded systems development.
• Proven delivery of safety-critical software.
• Strong experience with RTOS and real-time networking.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate embedded software for robotic systems.
• Integrate hardware and software into fault-tolerant systems.
• Architect safety-critical software stacks.

Skills

C/C++ development

Embedded systems development

Safety-critical software delivery

RTOS

Sensor integration

Linux kernel modification

Device driver development

Job description

Embedded Software Engineer – Robotics

Location: London, UK 5 days in the office

Department: Robotics & Embedded Systems Engineering

Experience Level: Senior (5+ years)

Salaries: TBD +Bonus

About the Role

We are building the next generation of human robots designed to safely and intelligently work alongside people. As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be at the heart of developing core real-time operating systems, data networks, protocols, and foundational software subsystems that power advanced robotic platforms.

You will design and deliver high-integrity, safety‑critical software that enables precise, high‑fidelity robotic control and safe human‑robot collaboration. This is a high‑impact role offering full ownership of new systems and direct contribution to future products.

What You’ll Do

• Design & Build Embedded Software: Develop and validate embedded software that meets stringent safety, reliability, and real‑time performance requirements.
• Hardware & Software Integration: Integrate sensors, actuators, and computing platforms into robust, fault‑tolerant robotic systems.
• Develop Safety‑Critical Systems: Architect and implement safety‑critical software stacks enabling robots to operate safely in human environments.
• Lead Cross‑Functional Projects: Drive interdisciplinary initiatives across perception, controls, computing, and software teams.
• System Testing & Validation: Integrate new systems onto physical robots and validate performance and safety in real‑world conditions.
• Build R&D Infrastructure: Contribute to tools, workflows, and engineering practices within a small, agile R&D team.
• Advance Robotic Safety & Performance: Help push the boundaries of real‑time performance and safety for human‑centric robotic systems.

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in C/C++ and embedded systems development.
• Proven delivery of safety‑critical software (robotics, autonomous vehicles, ADAS, medical devices, or similar).
• Strong experience with RTOS, time‑sensitive control systems, and real‑time networking.
• Expertise in sensor integration (cameras, LiDAR, radar, IMUs).
• Experience building or modifying Linux kernels and developing device drivers.

Nice to Have

• Experience deploying EtherCAT on custom hardware.
• Familiarity with functional safety standards (IEC 61508, ISO 26262).
• Background in humanoid robotics or complex electromechanical systems.

Why Join?

• Work on cutting‑edge humanoid robotics with real‑world impact.
• Own mission‑critical systems from concept through deployment.
• Collaborate with exceptional engineers across robotics, controls, and AI.
• Help shape the future of safe human‑robot collaboration.