OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled Lead Embedded Software Engineer to take technical ownership of embedded software architecture and development within a high-performance engineering environment. The role involves designing real-time embedded systems for complex electro-mechanical products used globally in industrial and advanced manufacturing applications.You will act as the technical authority for embedded software, mentoring engineers, shaping architecture, and ensuring robust, high-quality firmware delivery.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership & ArchitectureOwn and define the embedded software architecture across multiple product lines.Lead technical decision-making, balancing hardware, firmware, and system constraints.Drive best practices in embedded development: architecture design, coding standards, documentation, testing.Collaborate closely with hardware, electronics, controls, and systems teams.Embedded DevelopmentHands-on design and development of firmware in C/C++ for ARM-based MCUs (e.g., STM32).Design and implementation of real-time systems using RTOS or bare-metal environments.Develop robust firmware for sensors, motor control, communication buses, timing, and control loops.Implement and debug communication protocols (SPI, IC, UART, CAN, Modbus, EtherCAT, etc.).Quality, Testing & ComplianceEnsure software meets safety, reliability, and performance requirements.Champion unit testing, integration testing, hardware-in-the-loop verification.Familiarity with MISRA or similar embedded best-practice frameworks is beneficial.Team ContributionMentor and guide senior and mid-level engineers.Lead code reviews and enforce high engineering standards.Contribute to long-term technology roadmaps and product evolution.Skills & Experience RequiredEssentialStrong expertise developing real-time embedded software in C/C++.Proven experience designing embedded system architectures end-to-end.Deep understanding of microcontroller platforms (preferably ARM Cortex-M / STM32).Strong knowledge of hardware-software interfacing, electronics fundamentals, and debugging (oscilloscopes, logic analysers, JTAG, etc.).Experience working with communication protocols in industrial/embedded environments.Ability to lead projects, influence design decisions, and guide engineering teams.Experience in structured development processes, version control (Git), CI/CD for embedded systems.DesirableExperience in industrial control, robotics, machinery, pumps, motor control, sensors, or similar environments.Exposure to safety-critical or high-reliability systems.Python or scripting experience for tools/testing automation.Knowledge of DSP, control algorithms, or system modelling.Familiarity with IEC or ISO engineering standards.?? What Their CV Must Show (Non-Negotiables)Here's what you specifically want to screen for when sourcing:? Solid technical foundationsStrong embedded C/C++ development history.Real-time systems experience (bare-metal and/or RTOS).Experience with ARM Cortex-M / STM32 or equivalent MCUs.? Architecture capability (key for this lead role)Evidence of owning software architecture, not just implementing requirements.System-level thinking: bootloaders, task scheduling, memory management, scalability.Designs involving multiple peripherals, communication buses, and complex hardware interaction.? Communication protocolsExamples of designing or implementing protocols (SPI, I2C, CAN, UART, Modbus, EtherCAT etc.).? Debugging / hardware interactionReal-world experience debugging embedded systems using oscilloscopes, logic analysers, JTAG/SWD.? SDLC / QualityUnit testing, code review, version control, requirement traceability.Mention of MISRA or other structured coding practices is ideal.? Leadership traitsLeading small engineering groups or mentoring juniors.Running design reviews or being the 'go-to' person for system design issues.? Industrial/product backgroundPrefer candidates from:Industrial techRoboticsMechatronicsPumps/valves/motorsSemiconductor or high-vacuum systemsInstrumentationAutomation equipmentTo find out more about Computer Futures please visit JBRP1_UKTJ