Principal Software Engineer

Principal Embedded Software Engineer

Bristol (Hybrid)

Salary: Up to £80,000

I’m currently recruiting on behalf of a highly innovative technology business working at the forefront of embedded safety-critical systems. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Principal Embedded Software Engineer to lead the development of cutting-edge real-time software used in complex, high-integrity environments.

The Role

You’ll take ownership of a team developing a safety-critical Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) used across advanced engineering sectors. This is a leadership role combining hands-on technical expertise with team management and project delivery.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading, mentoring, and growing a team of embedded software engineers
• Overseeing full software lifecycle: design, development, testing, and deployment
• Driving best practices in embedded C development and code quality
• Managing multiple projects, ensuring delivery to high safety and quality standards
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders

About You

To be successful, you’ll bring:

• Strong experience in embedded software development within safety-critical environments
• Expertise in RTOS (e.g. FreeRTOS or similar)
• Proficiency in C (and ideally low-level/processor-level development)
• Proven leadership or team management experience
• Knowledge of standards such as DO-178C, ISO 26262, or IEC 61508 (highly desirable)

What’s on Offer

• Salary up to £80,000
• Hybrid working (3 days onsite)
• Bonus + enhanced pension
• Strong career progression and exposure to cutting-edge technology
• Supportive, collaborative engineering culture

If you’re looking to step into a senior leadership role while staying close to the technology, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact.