Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Smiths Detection; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Smiths Detection is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer in Hemel Hempstead to join our Software team. You will design, develop and support embedded software for advanced detection systems, with initial focus on low-power microcontroller platforms and later Linux-based projects.

You will lead technical investigations, own software work packages, and mentor junior engineers while collaborating with hardware and systems teams to deliver robust, scalable solutions for mission-critical

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience developing software for embedded systems.
• Strong modern C/C++ programming skills within embedded environments.
• Experience working with low-power microcontrollers and embedded hardware.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and maintain embedded software for low-power microcontroller platforms.
• Work within embedded RTOS and Linux environments.
• Lead technical investigations and propose solutions to complex engineering challenges.
• Collaborate with hardware, systems and multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Define software requirements, interfaces and system behaviour.
• Perform unit, integration and system-level testing.
• Mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Modern C/C++

Embedded systems

Linux

RTOS

Tools

Git

Rocky Linux

Job description

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection's threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.

Smiths Detection a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.

This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the-art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.

Job Description

We are looking for a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing Software team in Hemel Hempstead and play a key role in developing the next generation of chemical and explosive trace detection products.

This is an opportunity to work on mission‑critical technology that directly contributes to the safety and security of military and civilian users worldwide.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you will be part of an Agile software team responsible for designing, developing and supporting embedded software solutions across a range of advanced detection systems.

Initially, you will focus on embedded software development for low‑power microcontroller platforms before transitioning into projects that combine embedded systems and Linux‑based development environments. Alongside hands‑on technical delivery, you will take ownership of software work packages, lead technical investigations, contribute to architectural decisions, and support the development of less experienced engineers.

We're looking for someone who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and can effectively communicate ideas across multidisciplinary teams.

What You'll Be Doing

• Designing, developing and maintaining embedded software using modern C/C++
• Working within embedded RTOS and Linux environments
• Leading technical investigations and proposing solutions to complex engineering challenges
• Collaborating with hardware, systems and multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Defining software requirements, interfaces and system behaviour
• Conducting code reviews and supporting best practice software engineering
• Performing unit, integration and system‑level testing
• Contributing to software architecture and technical documentation
• Supporting Agile development activities including sprint planning and retrospectives
• Mentoring and supporting junior engineers
• Driving continuous improvement in software development processes, tools and practices

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role?

We are looking for more than a strong embedded developer. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to take ownership of technical work packages, investigate challenges independently, and clearly communicate solutions to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

You may currently be a Senior Software Engineer, Lead Engineer, Principal Engineer, or an experienced Embedded Engineer ready to operate at the next level. You will be comfortable balancing hands‑on development with technical leadership, mentoring and cross‑functional collaboration.

Why Join Smiths Detection?

• Work on cutting‑edge technology with real‑world impact
• Contribute to products that help protect communities and critical infrastructure
• Join an experienced and collaborative engineering team
• Influence technical direction and software best practices
• Opportunities for professional growth and technical leadership
• Exposure to advanced embedded and Linux‑based platforms
• Long‑term career development within a global technology organisation

Location: Hemel Hempstead

Working Pattern: Regular on‑site presence is required due to close interaction with target hardware and engineering teams.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience developing software for embedded systems
• Strong modern C/C++ programming skills within embedded environments
• Experience working with low‑power microcontrollers and embedded hardware

Knowledge of communication protocols such as:

• SPI
• I2C
• UART
• CAN
• USB
• Experience working within RTOS environments
• Strong Linux experience, ideally including system configuration and command‑line operation
• Familiarity with Rocky Linux, CentOS or Red Hat based distributions
• Experience with Git version control and modern development workflows
• Strong debugging and performance optimisation skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to independently own and deliver technical work packages
• Eligibility for BPSS clearance and ability to obtain SC Security Clearance
• Python scripting and automation
• Atlassian toolset including Jira, Bitbucket and Confluence
• Use of lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analysers and multimeters
• Ability to read and understand electronic schematics
• Experience working within regulated or safety‑critical environments
• Open‑source software contributions

Additional Information

Join us and we'll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You'll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You'll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective.

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.