Principal Software Engineer

ZipRecruiter; England; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm in the space-tech sector is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead the design and optimization of advanced satellite communication systems. This is a unique opportunity to work on mission-critical software that powers cutting-edge satellite technologies. The role involves collaborating with systems engineers, mentoring teams, and ensuring the reliability of systems destined for space. If you're passionate about embedded software development and have experience in the space industry, this position offers a chance to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving field.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in embedded software development, ideally within the space industry.
• Proficient in C++ and real-time operating systems (RTOS).

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of software for advanced satellite communication systems.
• Guide and mentor engineering teams, conduct code reviews, and enforce best practices.

Skills

C++

Embedded Software Development

Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS)

SDRs

FPGA Programming

Embedded Linux (Yocto/Buildroot)

Scripting (Python, Bash)

Version Control (Git)

Education

Bachelor's in Computer Science

Master's in Electrical Engineering

Job description

Job Description

We’re Hiring: Principal Software Engineer – Satellite Systems

Location: Surrey-based (Hybrid)

Sector: Satellite Communications | Embedded Systems | Space-tech

GTS Space is partnering with a leading company in the space-tech sector, which is on the lookout for a Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Our client is a global trailblazer in space-resilient computing — their technologies are already powering over 50 successful space missions across the solar system, with clients like NASA and ESA. With teams on three continents, they’re looking for a Principal Software Engineer to join them in their Surrey office.

This is a rare chance to work on mission-critical software for cutting-edge satellite communications and onboard processing systems.

Your Mission:

As Principal Software Engineer, you'll:

• Lead the design and optimization of software for advanced satellite communication systems
• Define architecture and drive the development of embedded, real-time solutions
• Collaborate closely with systems engineers to integrate hardware and software
• Guide and mentor engineering teams, conduct code reviews, and enforce best practices
• Ensure robust testing, validation, and reliability for space-bound systems
• Document design decisions and development processes meticulously
• Keep pace with the evolving space-tech ecosystem and its technologies

Who You Are:

• Bachelor's/Master's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• Strong experience in embedded software development, ideally within the space industry
• Proficient in C++ and real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Familiar with SDRs, FPGA programming, and embedded Linux (Yocto/Buildroot)

Bonus Points For:

• ESA project experience
• Linux Kernel and Xilinx toolchain familiarity
• Signal processing, RF frontend, or CCSDS protocols
• Scripting (Python, Bash), Git, and version control expertise

If this Principal Software Engineer is something you would like to hear more about, please reach out to us ASAP as our clients are looking to interview and office ASAP; [e-mail]