Embedded Systems Engineer - C/C++

LiveLink Aerospace Ltd; Havant; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace technology company based in the UK is seeking an Embedded Systems Engineer to develop and optimise firmware for defense-grade UAS systems. This high-impact role involves implementing advanced cryptographic security measures and working with state-of-the-art hardware. Candidates must have a degree in a related field, over 6 years of experience in embedded systems, and proficiency in C/C++. The job offers a competitive salary within the range of £60,000 - £75,000 per year and requires UK residency for security clearance.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in C/C++ embedded systems development.
• Proven experience with ARM Cortex-M architecture.
• Knowledge of RF systems in the 1GHz to 6GHz region.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimise embedded firmware for UAS systems.
• Implement cryptographic protocols for system integrity.
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to enhance performance.

Skills

C/C++ proficiency

ARM Cortex-M architecture experience

Embedded security knowledge

Debugging tools proficiency

Communication protocols understanding

Version control systems experience

Education

Degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

JTAG

Altium

Job description

Description

We are a fast-moving, innovation driven organisation operating at the sharp end of Air Intelligence, Security, and Counter-UAS technology. Our Airspace Intelligence System fuses advanced RF sensors, passive radar technologies, and multi domain data streams to elevate situational awareness and enhance operational resilience. We are seeking an exceptional Embedded Systems Engineer to join our elite technical team. This is a high impact role where you will be instrumental in developing and optimising embedded firmware for our next-generation counter-drone platforms. You will work on mission-critical systems that demand the highest levels of performance, reliability, and security. Working with state of the art hardware, you will design and implement sophisticated embedded solutions that integrate advanced cryptographic security measures to protect sensitive military communications and operational data.

Application Deadline

23 April 2026

Department

Software

Location

Havant

Compensation

£60,000 - £75,000 / year

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, successful candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC level). This typically requires you to have been a resident in the UK for at least 3 of the last 5 years.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimise embedded firmware in C/C++ for defence grade UAS systems
• Implement robust cryptographic protocols and secure boot mechanisms to ensure system integrity
• Develop and maintain embedded software for RP2350-based platforms, leveraging its dual-core ARM Cortex-M33 architecture and hardware security features
• Create efficient, real-time firmware for RF signal processing and threat detection systems
• Conduct thorough code reviews, static analysis, and security audits to meet defense industry standards
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to optimise system performance and resource utilisation
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation for safety-critical systems
• Participate in system integration testing and field trials with military and other end users
• During the development process, it will sometimes be essential to participate, in person, in tests at Lavant

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or related discipline (or equivalent demonstrable experience)
• Expert-level proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems development (6+ years)
• Proven experience with ARM Cortex-M architecture, particularly the RP2350 or similar dual-core Cortex-M33 platforms
• Deep knowledge of embedded security concepts
• Proficiency in embedded debugging tools and techniques, e.g. JTAG and SWD, and the use of oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analysers, and signal sources to verify operation of RF systems in the 1GHz to 6GHz region
• Strong understanding of communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN)
• Experience with version control systems (Git) and modern development workflows
• Ability to create working firmware for a system, given a design in Altium

Highly Desirable Skills

• Experience developing firmware for defense, aerospace, or safety-critical applications
• Some experience with Rust
• Knowledge of RF signal processing and software-defined radio concepts
• Experience using Altium for design
• Familiarity with DO-178C, IEC 61508, or similar safety standards
• Understanding of Side-Channel Attack countermeasures, and the overall security of systems containing embedded components and using RF channels
• Knowledge of secure firmware update mechanisms and anti-tamper technologies
• Experience with hardware security features, e.g. Arm TrustZone