Senior Software Engineer (OS)

Illumina, Inc; Linton; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology company is looking for a Senior Software Engineer to develop software for industry-leading DNA sequencing instruments. The role offers flexibility with remote work options and requires expertise in Linux and Windows OS design, along with strong programming and scripting skills. Ideal candidates will thrive in a collaborative, Agile environment and have a passion for innovation.

Benefits

Flexible time off

Private medical insurance

Pension scheme

Employee stock purchasing program

Volunteer time off

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with Linux and Windows OS image design and maintenance.
• Experience in fast-paced, Agile environments.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to present complex technical concepts.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test OS and control software for instruments.
• Create, verify, and release OS images for deployment.
• Troubleshoot OS and hardware issues across environments.

Skills

Linux OS image design

Windows OS image design

Object-oriented programming in C++ or C#

Scripting in Python

Scripting in Bash

CI/CD practices

Collaboration

Communication

Tools

Ansible

Git

SVN

Job description

Position Overview

Senior Software Engineer – Remote or Cambridge, UK (Hybrid working available). Join Illumina’s team of engineers that design, implement, and test operating systems and control software for our industry‑leading DNA sequencing and genotyping instruments. The role focuses on ensuring reliability, performance, and seamless deployment across development, manufacturing, and field environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test OS and control software for Illumina instruments.
• Create, verify, and release OS images for use in development, manufacturing, and field deployment.
• Troubleshoot OS and hardware issues across environments.
• Use kickstart files and Ansible playbooks to automate system installation and configuration.
• Develop and maintain scripts in Python, Bash, and C#.
• Participate fully in Agile processes including sprint planning, daily scrums, demos, and code reviews.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure seamless integration and delivery.
• Write high‑quality unit tests using mock objects.
• Ensure code quality through peer reviews and continuous integration.
• Support both Windows and Linux environments.
• Engage in inter‑company and cross‑organisational collaboration to drive innovation.

Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience with Linux and Windows OS image design and maintenance.
• Object‑oriented programming experience in C++ or C#.
• Proficiency with kickstart files and Ansible playbooks for system setup and configuration.
• Strong scripting skills in Python and Bash.
• Experience in fast‑paced, Agile environments and self‑starter attitude.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to present complex technical concepts clearly.
• Proficient in CI/CD practices, source control tools such as Git or SVN, and writing robust unit tests.
• Experience in biotech or bioinformatics is a plus.
• Familiarity with Xilinx FPGA and professional Linux certification is desirable.
• Collaborative nature and ability to work across teams and organisations.

Benefits

Illumina offers industry‑leading employee benefits, including flexible time off, private medical insurance, compassion and care time off, leisure travel insurance, pension, employee stock purchasing program, volunteer time off, and more.

Location

Cambridge, UK (Hybrid working options) or fully remote within the UK.