Lead Software/ Firmware Engineer

Bright Purple; Aberdeen City; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology consulting firm in Edinburgh is seeking a Lead Software/Firmware Engineer to design and develop firmware for advanced tools. This role offers the chance to work with cutting-edge technology, driving innovation and contributing to impactful projects in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate has a strong background in Embedded C programming and embedded design principles. Looking for a proactive individual ready to take ownership of the firmware development lifecycle and potentially move into a Team Lead position.

Benefits

Opportunity to become Team Lead

Professional growth

Work on industry-leading technology

Qualifications

• 5 years commercial experience writing Embedded C for 8/16-bit microcontrollers.
• Strong grasp of embedded design principles and firmware challenges.
• Experience with large coding projects involving thousands of lines.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test firmware for innovative downhole and surface tools.
• Work on low-power, high-reliability embedded systems.
• Collaborate closely with an expert R&D team.

Skills

Embedded C programming

Analytical thinking

Teamwork

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Job description

Overview

Lead Software/ Firmware Engineer

Up to £75,000

Edinburgh/Hybrid

Join our client’s R&D team and make your mark on cutting-edge oilfield technology.

Our international client designs and builds advanced downhole and subsurface tools used in some of the most demanding environments on earth. They develop all firmware in-house — giving engineers the rare opportunity to see their designs deployed in the field and make a tangible impact on real-world operations.

They are looking for an experienced Embedded Software / Firmware Engineer who’s passionate about embedded systems and ready to take ownership of the full firmware development lifecycle — from concept to deployment.

What You’ll Do

• Design, develop, and test firmware for innovative downhole and surface tools.
• Work on low-power, high-reliability embedded systems that must perform in extreme conditions.
• Implement safe-failure modes and robust communication protocols.
• Contribute to an established suite of tools while driving innovation and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate closely with a small, expert R&D team to solve complex challenges and deliver world-class products.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking someone with strong technical foundations, creativity, and initiative. You’ll ideally bring:

• 5 years commercial experience writing Embedded C for 8/16-bit microcontrollers.
• A strong grasp of embedded design principles and the unique challenges of firmware for microcontrollers.
• Experience completing large, complex coding projects (thousands of lines).
• Analytical and lateral thinking — you enjoy finding elegant solutions to tough problems.
• Solid understanding of digital electronics (analogue knowledge a plus).
• Great communication and teamwork skills.
• A proactive attitude and ownership mindset — you thrive under pressure and deliver on time.

Why Join?

• Work on industry-leading technology that sets new standards in performance and reliability.
• Be part of a tight-knit, expert team that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.
• See your designs brought to life in the field— and know they make a difference.
• Opportunity to become Team Lead in the future.

Bright Purple is an equal opportunities employer: we are proud to work with clients who share our values of diversity and inclusion in our industry.