Software Engineer C++

Guidant Global; Bristol; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence technology company is looking to hire a C++ Software Engineer in Bristol. This role involves hands-on software development and integration testing for systems critical to national security. The ideal candidate will have strong C++ skills, experience with IBM Rhapsody, and the ability to work independently within a high-performing team. A British Citizenship is required due to security clearance protocols.

Benefits

State-of-the-art facilities

Learning and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in C++ programming.
• Familiarity with IBM Rhapsody UML.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word for documentation.

Responsibilities

• Develop software and perform integration testing.
• Implement robust solutions using C++.
• Collaborate within a structured software development lifecycle.

Skills

C++ programming

Object-oriented principles

Performance optimisation

Model-based software development

Tools

IBM Rhapsody

IBM Engineering Workflow Management

CUDA

Job description

Our prestigious client—a key strategic partner to the UK Ministry of Defence—is seeking a highly capable and adaptable C++ Software Engineer to join their cutting-edge Development Facility in Bristol. As a global leader in missile and missile systems, this is your opportunity to contribute to mission-critical technology that protects national security.

You’ll be part of a dynamic and growing software team, developing next-generation defence solutions. This role offers the autonomy to work independently while collaborating within a close-knit, high-performing group. If you thrive in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment and have a passion for precision engineering, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage in hands-on software development and integration testing, working directly with hardware platforms to validate embedded systems performance.
• Develop robust solutions using C++ and IBM Rhapsody, with EWM as the preferred configuration and version control tool.
• Contribute to the evolution and refinement of existing software requirements, ensuring alignment with system-level objectives.
• Operate within a controlled lab environment, deploying and testing software on target hardware to meet mission-critical standards.
• Collaborate within a structured software development lifecycle, adhering to rigorous quality and security protocols in a regulated engineering setting.

What do you need?

• Proven expertise in C++ programming, with a strong grasp of object-oriented principles and performance optimisation.
• Familiarity with IBM Rhapsody UML for model-based software development and system design.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, with the ability to review, edit, and maintain technical documentation to a high standard.
• Experience with IBM Engineering Workflow Management (RTC/EWM) is advantageous, particularly in configuration and change control environments.
• Exposure to CUDA for parallel computing and GPU acceleration would be beneficial.

Desirable Skills

• Multithreaded Architecture: Proven ability to design and optimise concurrent systems for performance and reliability.
• Defence Domain Familiarity: Prior exposure to missile systems, avionics, or military-grade software environments.
• Security-Centric Development: Knowledge of secure coding standards and threat mitigation in software design.
• Collaborative Autonomy: Demonstrated success working independently while contributing to high-performing technical teams.

What happens now?

Upon submission of your application, should it meet our selection criteria, you will be contacted via e-mail by one of our talent acquisition specialists to arrange a screening call. This telephone chat is structured to explore a series of questions aimed at matching your competencies and capabilities to the specific demands of the position. Please note, this screening is contingent upon the initial success of your application.

Security Clearance

British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship

Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by our clients Security Team.

More about the role

For more than 70 years, our client has been in a strong partnership with the UK military. They have accomplished numerous milestones in defence engineering and have provided essential defence capabilities to meet the requirements of the armed forces across land, sea, and air.

This role is based in Bristol, at one of their state-of-the-art sites that plays a crucial role in missile operations. The location boasts excellent transportation links, outstanding learning and development opportunities, and a variety of social, charitable, and sporting activities.