Lead Software Engineer - DO-178C / Embedded C

Location: Cheltenham (hybrid working) Duration: 6 month contract Inside IR35 Role details: Our client is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to support the development of mission- and safety-critical systems within the defence and aerospace sector. This contract role is suited to an experienced embedded software professional with strong real-time programming expertise and comprehensive knowledge of DO-178C Level A compliance. Key Responsibilities: Derive high-level and low-level software requirements Author software architectures and detailed design documentation Develop bare-metal, real-time embedded software using C and C++ Implement safety-critical software for an embedded modular platform Manage activities across the full software development lifecycle Ensure compliance with DO-178C Level A processes, including traceability, testing and quality assurance Conduct design reviews, code reviews, verification and validation activities Collaborate with hardware, systems and test engineering teams to support effective integration Job Requirements: Significant experience developing bare-metal, real-time embedded systems in C Strong proficiency in Embedded C/C++ and real-time software design In-depth knowledge of DO-178C Level A standards, processes and documentation Experience working with safety-critical systems and certification requirements, including MC/DC testing Understanding of RTOS concepts and embedded modular platforms Familiarity with debugging tools, hardware interfaces and safety analysis techniques Experience with software requirements, design, implementation, testing and verification Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills Desirable Experience: Experience within aerospace, defence or another high-reliability engineering environment Knowledge of related safety-critical standards, such as ARP4754, ARINC 653, DO-254 or DO-248 Understanding of hardware and software integration and hardware-in-the-loop testing Experience reporting project status and contributing to programme reviews This is an opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced safety-critical technology used across defence, aerospace and unmanned systems. If you have the required Embedded C/C++ and DO-178C expertise, apply now