Embedded Software Research Engineer

Location:

Reading, United Kingdom

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace and digital security, we help build a future we can trust.

We are looking for an Embedded Software Research Engineer to join our Thales Research & Technology (TRT) team in Reading. This role offers the unique opportunity to work on technologies that do not yet exist in today’s products, collaborating with a small, expert research team that encourages creativity, experimentation and innovation. You will develop proof‑of‑concept demonstrators, rapid prototypes and integrated embedded software, engaging with a diverse range of technical challenges and emerging technologies.

The TRT function supports growth across our key market sectors and explores future technologies and opportunities. Our teams conduct cutting‑edge research to shape the next generation of solutions across defence, aerospace, security and digital technologies.

• Develop proof‑of‑concept demonstrators and pre‑production prototypes for future technologies and products.
• Develop, integrate and test Embedded C software on embedded platforms.
• Conduct feasibility studies through analysis, experimentation and rapid prototyping activities.
• Research, invent and evaluate innovative concepts and technologies, demonstrating their applicability to Thales products and solutions.
• Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams while taking ownership of individual technical activities and adapting to new research areas.

• Strong experience developing software in Embedded
  
  C.
• Experience developing for embedded platforms, ideally using ARM‑based processors and real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• Understanding of software engineering standards, processes and best practices, including MISRA, CERT C, Agile methodologies, Git, CI/CD or related tools.
• Ability to analyse complex technical problems and develop innovative, practical solutions.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, working independently or within a team.

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2:1) or higher (Master’s or PhD) in Engineering, Electronics, Computer Science, Mathematics or related discipline.
• Practical experience developing Embedded C software through industry, research projects, placements or postgraduate study.

• Performance‑related bonus (grade dependent).
• Half day every Friday, normally finishing around 13:00.
• Hybrid working.
• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with opportunity to buy up to 40 hours per year.
• 24 hours volunteering paid.
• Pension scheme.
• Life cover.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app.
• Employee discount schemes on major brands and retailers.
• Gym membership discounts.
• Extensive learning, development and career progression opportunities.
• Relocation support may be available where applicable.

Due to the nature of the work, this role requires you to be a UK national and to hold Security Clearance (SC) without any caveats. Experience of current SC clearance is advantageous, but if not held the successful applicant must obtain and maintain SC clearance prior to commencing employment. Dual nationals from non‑ITAR countries may be considered with government approval.

To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last five years. In some circumstances, a minimum of three years’ residence in the UK over the last five years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.

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At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all. We provide private medical insurance, cycle‑to‑work schemes, paid volunteering days, stocks and shares, annual bonus and more depending on the role. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring.