Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection's threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.

Smiths Detection a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.

This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the-art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.

We are looking for a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join our growing Software team in Hemel Hempstead and play a key role in developing the next generation of chemical and explosive trace detection products.

This is an opportunity to work on mission‑critical technology that directly contributes to the safety and security of military and civilian users worldwide.

As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you will be part of an Agile software team responsible for designing, developing and supporting embedded software solutions across a range of advanced detection systems.

Initially, you will focus on embedded software development for low‑power microcontroller platforms before transitioning into projects that combine embedded systems and Linux‑based development environments. Alongside hands‑on technical delivery, you will take ownership of software work packages, lead technical investigations, contribute to architectural decisions, and support the development of less experienced engineers.

We're looking for someone who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and can effectively communicate ideas across multidisciplinary teams.

• Designing, developing and maintaining embedded software using modern C/C++
• Working within embedded RTOS and Linux environments
• Leading technical investigations and proposing solutions to complex engineering challenges
• Collaborating with hardware, systems and multidisciplinary engineering teams
• Defining software requirements, interfaces and system behaviour
• Conducting code reviews and supporting best practice software engineering
• Performing unit, integration and system‑level testing
• Contributing to software architecture and technical documentation
• Supporting Agile development activities including sprint planning and retrospectives
• Mentoring and supporting junior engineers
• Driving continuous improvement in software development processes, tools and practices

We are looking for more than a strong embedded developer. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to take ownership of technical work packages, investigate challenges independently, and clearly communicate solutions to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

You may currently be a Senior Software Engineer, Lead Engineer, Principal Engineer, or an experienced Embedded Engineer ready to operate at the next level. You will be comfortable balancing hands‑on development with technical leadership, mentoring and cross‑functional collaboration.

• Work on cutting‑edge technology with real‑world impact
• Contribute to products that help protect communities and critical infrastructure
• Join an experienced and collaborative engineering team
• Influence technical direction and software best practices
• Opportunities for professional growth and technical leadership
• Exposure to advanced embedded and Linux‑based platforms
• Long‑term career development within a global technology organisation

Location: Hemel Hempstead

Working Pattern: Regular on‑site presence is required due to close interaction with target hardware and engineering teams.

• Minimum 5 years' experience developing software for embedded systems
• Strong modern C/C++ programming skills…