Software Engineering Intern; Openware

Software Engineering Intern (Openware)

Location:

Edinburgh, ELN, GB, EH67EZ

Business Unit:
Abaco Business Unit

Posting Date:
Feb 27, 2026

The Software Engineering Intern role will involve embedded and GNU/Linux system software development on a selection of projects based in Abaco’s Networking Innovation Centre in Edinburgh. This 12‑month internship is specifically designed for students undertaking a sandwich degree that recognises a 12‑month industrial placement.

Our Software Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and testing of a range of embedded and systems software. As an Edinburgh‑based intern you will be assigned to the Open Ware Development Team, working on real‑world products and customer issues within Abaco’s NETernity network switch products. You will develop and support switch management applications and surrounding ecosystems, with a focus on C code for network switch products and Python automation scripts to support testing and long‑term product support.

During the placement you will collaborate with groups outside of software—such as Product Managers, other engineering disciplines, and our production facility—to support business activities and deliver an exceptional software product for our customers.

The internship offers the opportunity to discover how we operate and to be mentored by experienced engineers so that you can grow your skills throughout the placement. Previous interns are a common source for new graduates, and returning interns are welcomed onto the graduate scheme.

• Work within the software team to develop and support a variety of software and hardware product releases.
• Gain knowledge of project tools and processes, for example, Git, Yocto, JIRA, static analysis and Agile development methodologies.
• Produce clear, concise written reports and instructions to enable other engineers and/or customers to follow/repeat a process.
• Get involved in requirements analysis & management.
• Implement and test embedded software and automation test applications.
• Perform and understand software integration and verification.
• Ensure business activity is conducted in line with company values, policies & ethics code of conduct.
• Proactively promote and support the company’s compliance with Health and Safety legislation.

• Studying a degree in Software Engineering, Computing for Real‑Time Systems, Electronics and Software Engineering or similar (but not IT‑based degrees).
• Knowledge of the C and Python (or similar) programming languages.
• Desire to develop engineering skills in embedded and GNU/Linux system software development.
• Good problem‑solving and creative, solution‑building skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to contribute effectively to team‑working and group discussions.
• Ability to work to timescales, achieve personal deadlines and contribute to team deadlines.
• Methodical approach, including checking of own work; maintain an enthusiastic, organised and positive attitude with a polite, respectful and professional demeanour at all times.
• Effective communication, both verbal and written (internal and external).
• Demonstrate initiative and enthusiasm for the technology domains encompassed by Abaco.

This is a full‑time 12‑month internship; you will need the ability to start at the end of July/beginning of August depending on the intake date.