Software Engineer- Defence

Positiv Cohort; City Of London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence contractor is looking for a Software Engineer to develop robust software test solutions and contribute to the full software lifecycle. Applicants must have current SC clearance and can work collaboratively in an agile environment. Proficiency in C, C++, C#, and experience with test automation are essential. This role offers competitive rates outside IR-35, with a focus on quality and cross-functional teamwork.

Benefits

Competitive rates outside IR-35

Qualifications

• Current SC Clearance is essential.
• Strong coding ability in C, C++, C#, and scripting languages required.
• Experience in test automation and software testing frameworks necessary.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop software test solutions for electronics systems.
• Collaborate with engineers to integrate software with hardware platforms.
• Apply automation and continuous integration practices.

Skills

Proficiency in C

Proficiency in C++

Proficiency in C#

Scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash)

Test automation tools

Agile methodologies

Communication skills

Tools

LabWindows CVI

NI TestStand

Electronic measurement tools

Job description

We are seeking a Software Engineer to support a high-impact Defence programme. This role involves developing robust software test solutions and contributing to the full software lifecycle in a complex, multi-disciplinary engineering environment. The successful candidate must be currently SC cleared and able to commute to Stevenage four times per week due to the sensitive nature of the project.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and development of software test solutions for electronics systems.
• Write and maintain software in C, C++, C#, and scripting languages.
• Collaborate with electronics and embedded systems engineers to integrate software with hardware platforms.
• Work with tools such as LabWindows CVI, TestStand, and other test automation frameworks.
• Apply DevOps principles, including automation, continuous integration, and deployment pipelines.
• Interface with various communications protocols and serial buses including TFTP, Ethernet, RS232, RS422, RS485, Modbus, CAN, and MIL-STD-1553.
• Use electronic measurement and debugging tools such as digital voltmeters (DVMs), oscilloscopes, and spectrum analysers.
• Ensure high-quality software development through practices such as unit testing, test-driven development (TDD), and clean code design.
• Participate in Agile development teams, contributing to sprint planning, reviews, and collaborative problem-solving.
• Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Required Skills and Experience

• Current SC Clearance (essential).
• Strong proficiency in C, C++, C#, and scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash).
• Experience with test automation tools and software testing frameworks.
• Familiarity with embedded systems and electronics engineering principles.
• Hands-on experience with serial communication protocols and hardware interfaces.
• Knowledge of DevOps, CI/CD pipelines, and Agile methodologies.
• Ability to work with electronic test equipment and debug hardware/software interactions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Desirable

• Experience in Defence or Aerospace environments.
• Familiarity with LabWindows CVI, NI TestStand, or similar platforms.
• Exposure to low-volume, high-complexity production or mission-critical systems.

COMPETITIVE RATES OUTSIDE IR-35