Software Design Engineer

MSI Defence Systems Ltd; Norwich; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence technology company in Norwich is seeking a Software Design Engineer to drive embedded software development from requirements to delivery. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in real-time embedded C++ on Linux, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication abilities. This role offers competitive salary and unique benefits, including compressed working hours and extensive holiday.

Benefits

Pension scheme

Compressed working hours

22.5 days holiday plus bank holidays

Westfield Health Cash plan

Gym discount

Training & Development

Free on-site parking

Qualifications

• Proven experience developing real-time embedded C++ software, ideally on Linux.
• Familiarity with version control systems is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Developing embedded software solutions from concept to commissioning.
• Writing robust, efficient C++ code for real-time Linux systems.
• Participating in design reviews and troubleshooting.

Skills

Real-time embedded C++ software development

Linux systems

Version control systems (e.g. Git)

Problem-solving skills

Effective communication

Qt Creator

Education

HND or equivalent experience

Job description

JOB TITLE: Software Design Engineer

SALARY: Competitive

HOURS: Compressed hours - 37 ½ hours per wk (Mon – Thurs 0815 – 1700/ Fri 0815 – 1245)

LOCATION: Norwich, NR7

About the role

Are you an expert in software design for embedded systems with a strong grasp of real-time C++ on Linux? We’re seeking a Software Design Engineer to drive the full lifecycle of embedded software development—from requirements and architecture through to testing and delivery—in a cutting-edge manufacturing environment.

The main elements of the role will include:

• Developing embedded software solutions from concept to commissioning
• Writing robust, efficient C++ code for real-time Linux systems
• Ensuring compliance with industry standards and internal processes
• Participating in design reviews and troubleshooting technical challenges
• Collaborating closely with systems, hardware, and test teams to deliver integrated solutions

About the person

• HND or equivalent experience in software development or related discipline
• Proven experience developing real-time embedded C++ software, ideally on Linux
• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g. Git)
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative mindset
• Experience with Qt Creator is a plus

How to apply

This is a chance to take ownership of embedded software design in an innovative environment. If you’re passionate about designing robust software architectures and driving technical excellence, we want to hear from you. To learn more about our Software Design Engineer role, simply click the button today!

About our benefits

• Pension - 3.5% E'r / min 3.5% E'ee (salary sacrifice if you want to contribute more)
• Compressed working hours Monday - Thursday 0815 - 1700/ Friday 0815 - 1245 Half day Fridays
• 22.5 days/ 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays (this will be pro-rata'd) Fridays is a half day holiday
• Christmas Shutdown this will be taken out of the holiday allocation
• Westfield Health Cash plan, gym discount and shopping rewards
• Refer a Friend Scheme
• Long Service Award
• Training & Development
• Free on-site parking

About the company

At MSI-Defence Systems Ltd (MSI-DS) we specialise in Remote Weapon Stations for land-based counter drone and naval applications.

With almost 140 years of experience in defence equipment manufacturing, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide unique and cost-effective solutions, optimised to stay ahead of evolving threats and to meet the most stringent operational requirements.

MSI-DS is a major supplier of class-leading defence equipment to the UK Military and over 40 other armed forces around the world, offering unrivalled capability and through-life in-service support.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person