Principal Software Engineer

IO; Vale of White Horse; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A high-tech instrumentation firm in the Vale of White Horse is looking for a Principal Software Engineer to lead development for its innovative products. The role involves creating high-quality software and providing technical leadership within agile teams. The ideal candidate will have significant C++ development experience and a degree in Software Engineering or related fields. This hybrid role offers a competitive salary and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience with software development in C++ including control systems.
• Proficiency with network and communication protocols.
• Knowledge of Python programming and cloud platforms like Azure or AWS.

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of high-quality software in agile project teams.
• Assume ownership of technical solutions across projects.
• Develop project documentation for ongoing maintenance.

Skills

C++ software development

Communication protocols

Problem-solving

Organisational skills

Education

Degree in Software Engineering or related field

Tools

CMake

GIT

SQL

Job description

Principal Software Engineer

Location: Oxford - Hybrid

Salary: up to £75,000

Job Type: Permanent

Organisation Overview

Our Client operates within the high-tech instrumentation sector, specialising in advanced measurement solutions for scientific and industrial applications. Recognised for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence, Our Client fosters a collaborative and growth-oriented environment that values creativity, technical expertise, and continuous learning. They are dedicated to delivering cutting‑edge products that drive scientific discovery and industry advancements. Working here provides opportunities to be at the forefront of scientific innovation, supported by a culture that encourages professional development and teamwork.

Role Summary

Due to ongoing growth and strategic development initiatives, Our Client is seeking an experienced Principal Software Engineer to lead the development of sophisticated software applications and drivers for its range of specialised products. This pivotal role is fundamental to enabling the organisation to meet its ambitious technical goals and to maintain its reputation for precision and reliability. The position offers the chance to influence project outcomes significantly, drive technical excellence, and support innovative measurement solutions on a global scale.

Responsibilities

• Lead the creation and enhancement of high-quality software features within agile project teams, ensuring delivery aligns with project timelines and specifications.
• Assume ownership of technical solutions across designated projects, including participating in design reviews and architectural decisions.
• Develop comprehensive project documentation to facilitate ongoing maintenance and future development efforts by teams and internal partners.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the software team, sharing expertise and guiding best practices.
• Offer technical support during all phases of product lifecycle, from initial installation to ongoing operation.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across departments to develop integrated and innovative technological solutions.
• Drive continuous improvement by recommending new tools, techniques, and processes to enhance product quality and development efficiency.
• Maintain a strong understanding of emerging trends, tools, and techniques within the software engineering and scientific domains.
• Contribute to personal and organisational growth by engaging in ongoing learning, understanding customer needs, and proposing new features to boost product performance.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards, taking personal responsibility for a safe working environment.
• Undertake additional tasks as required to support Our Client's strategic objectives.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Degree in Software Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or related scientific discipline.
• Extensive experience with software development in C++, including control systems and complex application design.
• Proficiency with network and communication protocols.
• Familiarity with development tools such as CMake, GIT or similar source control, bug tracking systems, and debugging tools.
• Knowledge of Python programming and distributed system concepts.
• Experience working with database interactions, SQL, and cloud infrastructure platforms such as Azure or AWS.
• Proven track record in delivering high-quality software solutions in a scientific or industrial setting.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to work effectively within a team.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills.
• Awareness of project management methodologies.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience with measurement data analysis in physical sciences.
• Knowledge of laboratory or industrial control systems.
• Familiarity with cultural responsiveness and global collaboration.
• Experience in innovation-driven environments and customer-focused project delivery.

If you are a proactive and detail-oriented software engineer with the expertise to lead critical projects and deliver high impact solutions, we invite you to submit your CV for consideration. Join Our Client's team and be part of pioneering scientific advancements that push the boundaries of knowledge.