Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Job Description

At Smiths Detection, we develop cutting-edge technologies that help protect people, critical infrastructure and national security interests around the world. We're looking for a talented Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our Technology team and play a key role in developing the next generation of chemical and explosive trace detection products used in mission-critical environments.

At Smiths Detection, we develop cutting-edge technologies that help protect people, critical infrastructure and national security interests around the world. We're looking for a talented Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our Technology team and play a key role in developing the next generation of chemical and explosive trace detection products used in mission-critical environments.

This is an opportunity to work on sophisticated embedded systems that directly contribute to the safety and security of military and civilian users worldwide.

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you'll take technical ownership of software components within a highly skilled Agile team, contributing to the design, development and optimisation of embedded solutions. Working closely with Software, Systems and Electronics engineers, you'll help deliver robust, high-performance products while driving engineering best practice and mentoring junior colleagues.

• Designing, developing and maintaining embedded software in C and C++
• Working across RTOS and Linux-based embedded environments
• Leading technical investigations and solving complex engineering challenges
• Collaborating with hardware, systems and cross-functional engineering teams
• Conducting code reviews and ensuring high-quality software through rigorous testing
• Supporting software architecture, documentation and design decisions
• Contributing to Agile ceremonies including sprint planning and retrospectives
• Mentoring and supporting the development of junior engineers
• Driving continuous improvement in software development tools, processes and practices
• Supporting Linux system configuration, optimisation and troubleshooting activities

You'll be joining a business whose technology makes a genuine difference to global safety and security. We offer the opportunity to work on technically challenging products, collaborate with highly experienced engineering teams and contribute to innovations that have real-world impact.

If you're passionate about embedded software engineering, enjoy solving complex technical problems and have strong expertise in modern C++, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: This position requires successful BPSS screening and the ability to obtain UK Security Check (SC) clearance. Due to the nature of the work, regular on-site attendance at our Hemel Hempstead facility is required.

• Minimum 5 years' experience developing software for embedded systems
• Strong expertise in embedded software development using modern C++ (latest/current standards) and C
• Proven experience developing software within embedded Linux and/or RTOS environments
• Experience working with microcontrollers, peripherals and hardware debugging tools
• Knowledge of communication protocols such as SPI, I2C, UART, CAN and USB
• Strong understanding of real-time systems and RTOS concepts
• Experience using Git and modern CI/CD practices
• Ability to analyse, optimise and troubleshoot system performance
• Working knowledge of Linux operating systems, including Red Hat, CentOS or Rocky Linux
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively within a collaborative Agile environment
• Willingness to work regularly on-site in Hemel Hempstead due to hardware integration requirements

• Python or other scripting languages for automation
• Experience with RTOS platforms such as FreeRTOS, ThreadX or Keil RTX
• Experience with in safety-critical, regulated or highly engineered environments
• Open-source software contribution experience
• Advanced Linux configuration and optimisation experience

Join us and we’ll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business,…