About this role
Work on cutting‑edge embedded software systems supporting advanced avionics and land‑based defence platforms. Join ALTEN Ltd as an Embedded Software Engineer, where you’ll develop robust, real‑time software that underpins mission‑critical systems operating in highly challenging environments.
You’ll be hands‑on across the full embedded software lifecycle, working on low‑level development, hardware integration, and performance‑critical applications — contributing to systems that demand precision, reliability and safety.
Location: Hastings
On‑site: Hybrid (3 days per week)
Seniority: Mid–Senior (5+ years experience)
Security Clearance: Candidates must be willing and eligible to obtain SC clearance.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop and maintain embedded software using C/C++ within real‑time environmentsDevelop software for avionics and land defence systems, interfacing closely with hardwareWork across the full lifecycle from requirements and architecture through to integration, testing and deploymentSupport hardware/software integration, debugging and system bring‑up activitiesDevelop and optimise code for performance‑critical and resource‑constrained environmentsContribute to verification and validation activities, including unit and integration testingCollaborate with systems, electronics and hardware engineers to ensure seamless system performanceParticipate in code reviews, technical discussions and continuous improvement activities Required Skills
5+ years’ experience in embedded software developmentStrong programming experience in C/C++ within real‑time or embedded systemsExperience working close to hardware interfaces (drivers, peripherals, communication protocols)Understanding of embedded systems architecture and constraintsExperience across the software development lifecycle in safety‑critical or regulated environmentsStrong debugging and problem‑solving skills in low‑level systemsSoft Skills & Collaboration
Strong communicator within multidisciplinary engineering teamsProactive and solution‑focused mindsetAbility to work in structured, process‑driven environments (defence / safety‑critical)Collaborative approach with a focus on quality and deliveryRequired Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, or relevant technical military background with equivalent experience.Desirable Skills
Experience within avionics or defence systemsKnowledge of real‑time operating systems (RTOS) (e.g. VxWorks, FreeRTOS, Embedded Linux)Experience with communication protocols (e.g. CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet)Exposure to safety‑critical standards (e.g. DO‑178C, MISRA)Experience with hardware debugging tools (e.g. oscilloscopes, JTAG, logic analysers)Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines or automated testing frameworks 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.