About this role
Join our team as a Senior Embedded Communications and Integration Engineer and play a key role in delivering complex, mission‑critical systems within the defence sector. This role sits at the intersection of embedded software, communications, and system integration, supporting the integration of imposed COTS/MOTS equipment into larger, safety‑critical architectures.
You will work in a hands‑on engineering environment, translating between dissimilar communication standards, debugging real hardware in the lab, and supporting system de‑risking activities in close collaboration with systems and electronics teams.
Location: Stevenage
On-site: Remote with occasional site visits
Seniority: Senior (8+ years’ experience)
Clearance: Candidates must be willing and eligible to obtain SC clearance.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, and document application‑level drivers for imposed COTS/MOTS equipmentImplement and validate communications translations across multiple protocols (e.g. Ethernet, CAN, Modbus)Support lab‑based integration, compatibility testing, and system bring‑up activitiesIdentify, diagnose, and resolve interoperability and communications issues early in the integration lifecycleWork closely with the Systems Architect to close technical risks and support architectural decisionsInterface with electronics and software SMEs to agree and implement low‑level integration solutions Required Skills
Strong background as an embedded software or systems integration engineerExcellent low‑level software capability using C and/or C++Experience working with black‑box COTS/MOTS equipment and vendor‑supplied APIsProven hands‑on lab and debug experience using tools such as logic analysers, protocol sniffers, and similarDemonstrated experience translating between dissimilar communications standardsBackground delivering solutions in defence, avionics, or other safety‑critical environmentsSoft Skills & Collaboration
Pragmatic, solutions‑focused engineering mindsetStrong communicator across systems, software, and electronics disciplinesComfortable working in ambiguous problem spaces and de‑risking complex integrationsTakes ownership of technical problems through to resolutionRequired Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related discipline, or relevant technical military background with equivalent experience.Desirable Skills
Experience with additional communications protocols or networked systemsExposure to avionics, defence, or safety‑regulated programmesUnderstanding of integration and verification activities at system levelFamiliarity with working alongside suppliers and external technical stakeholders Why join us?
We bring together entrepreneurial, tech-driven people to deliver innovative solutions for leading companies.
At ALTEN, you’ll work on exciting projects, supported by ongoing learning, mentoring, and clear career development tailored to your goals.
Join a passionate team and help build tomorrow, today.
In short you get:
A personalised career path and a rewarding management style A huge diversity of engineering projects and industriesPrivate Medical InsuranceCycle & Tech Scheme Employee assistance programmeLife insurance & Pension SchemeSocial atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildingsFlexible way of working (role dependent)We are proud to support the Armed Forces Covenant & actively encourage applications from members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, service leavers, and military spouses/partners. We recognise the value of military skills and experience and are committed to ensuring that no applicant is unfairly disadvantaged during our recruitment and selection processes.
ALTEN is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and values the strength that comes from a global mix of backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background or protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
This role may require you to have or be willing to go through Security Clearance. As part of the onboarding process candidates will be asked to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard; details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected . Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.