Software Engineer

Software Developer Embedded Systems

Location: Bristol 3-4 days/week on customer site

Clearance: Must be eligible for DV clearance (British Citizen UK residency last 10 years).

Are you an experienced software developer who loves building practical solutions on embedded hardware Want to work closely with end-users and see the real-world impact of your code

Join our National Security & Defence team where youll design and deliver mission-critical software using platforms like ESP32 Raspberry Pi and ARM-based microcontrollers (e.g. Zero Pico). Youll work with Python and C to solve operational problems directly alongside our customers typically on-site 4 days per week. This is a hands-on role for engineers who enjoy low-level work problem-solving and creating robust tools in challenging environments.

• Develop bespoke software solutions on embedded platforms (ESP32 Raspberry Pi ARM).

• Write and maintain code in Python and/or C often interfacing directly with hardware.

• Work with communication protocols to control and integrate peripheral devices.

• Perform testing and debugging both in the lab and at customer sites.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to refine requirements and implement features.

• Occasionally support system integration and deployment of hardware/software stacks.

• Engage with users to understand operational needs and adapt your solutions accordingly.

• Contribute to technical documentation and version control (Git).

• Support team knowledge sharing and mentor less-experienced developers when appropriate.

Essential:

• Experience in hands-on software development.

• Strong proficiency in C and/or Python.

• Experience coding for embedded systems (e.g. ESP32 ARM Cortex-based boards).

• Familiarity with low-level hardware interfacing including serial comms GPIO USB or SPI/I2C.

• Comfort working in Linux development environments.

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to adapt quickly to new hardware tools and use cases.

• Familiarity with unit testing debugging tools and Git-based workflows.

Desirable:

• Experience with security-focused projects (e.g. Government MoD).

• Exposure to cryptography and secure audio/data transport.

• Knowledge of Bluetooth Ultra-Wideband or other wireless protocols.

• Familiarity with USB device drivers or USB communication.

• Use of RTOS or bare-metal development environments.

• Degree in Computer Science Electrical Engineering or related field preferred.

• Professional membership of BCS or IET is a plus.

Were a global technology company tackling the UKs toughest national security challenges. Our Capability Development team is known for delivering bespoke high-performance solutions in complex environments. We value people who are curious self-directed and eager to get their hands dirty with code.

• Competitive Salary & Financial Rewards: Pension share options car leasing free parking cycle scheme.

• Private Medical Insurance

• 33 Days Annual Leave (incl. public holidays) with buy/sell options.

• Flexible Benefits: Life assurance gym memberships health plans.

• Work-Life Balance: 37.5-hour week up to 2 TOIL days per month.

• Learning & Development: TechX Academy unlimited e-learning career mobility.

• Flexi time working

If you want to work on real-world systems close to the mission and in a role where your code directly impacts outcomes wed love to hear from you.

At Leidos we are PASSIONATE about customer success UNITED as a team and INSPIRED to make a difference. We offer meaningful and engaging careers a collaborative culture and support for your career goals all while nurturing a healthy work-life balance.
We provide an employment package that attracts develops and retains only the best in talent.

Commitment to Diversity:

We welcome applications from every part of the community and are committed to a truly diverse and inclusive culture. We foster a sense of belonging welcoming all perspectives and contributions and providing equal access to opportunities and resources for you have a disability or need any reasonable adjustments during the application and selection stages please let us know and we will respond in a way that best fits your needs.

Who We Are:

Leidos UK & EUROPE we work to make theworldsaferhealthierandmore efficient through technology engineering andscience.

Leidosis agrowing company delivering innovative technology and solutions focused on safeguarding critical capabilities and transformation in frontline services our work in the United Kingdom includes addressing some of the most complex problems in defence healthcare government safety and security and transportation.

What Makes Us Different:

Purpose:you can use your passion and abilities at Leidos to keep the people you care about safe. We are at the forefront of machine learning AI cyber security and solutions. Using your skills in the technology frontline by helping to build a safer world. You caninspirechange.

Collaboration:havingflexibilityto do your job is one of our core benefits enabling you to become part of our extraordinary team. We have been empowering our people to work flexibly for years. Whether you work from home the office or on customer sites we will give you the digital tools and the flexibility to work smarter and align your needs andours.

People:Leidosempowerspeople from every background to be themselves and gives you the tools to learn new skills byenabling growthwhilst developing. We believe that extraordinary people need opportunities to grow tobe inspiredand to inspire others. At Leidos we invest in technical academies career rotations and a career development plans that enhance your future. #INTNSD

If youre looking for comfort keep scrolling. At Leidos we outthink outbuild and outpace the status quo because the mission demands it. Were not hiring followers. Were recruiting the ones who disrupt provoke and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. Were already at step 30 and moving faster than anyone else dares.

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job education experience knowledge skills and abilities as well as internal equity alignment with market data applicable bargaining agreement (if any) or other law.