Job Title: Client-Facing Software Engineer (Field & Integration) Location: Hereford, UK (4 Days Onsite / 1 Day Remote) Salary: £60,000 - £100,000 (Dependent on experience) Security Clearance: SC / DV (or eligibility to obtain)
The Role
We are a rapidly growing defence technology company specializing in advanced unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Our products are currently deployed with tier-one users, providing critical capability in challenging environments.
We are looking for a Client-Facing Software Engineer to become our primary technical point of contact in Hereford. You will effectively take over the on-the-ground technical responsibilities from the company founders, embedding yourself with MOD users and partner forces.
This is a hybrid role between software engineering, systems integration, and technical account management. You will not just be fixing bugs; you will be running trials, troubleshooting complex network environments in the field, and ensuring our technology delivers operational success for the end-user.
Key Responsibilities
* Operational Integration: Act as the technical face of the company in Hereford. You will be the bridge between the end-user’s operational reality and our engineering team.
* Trials & Demos: Plan and execute flight trials, system demonstrations, and user training sessions. You will ensure the kit works when it matters most.
* Field Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve complex connectivity, networking, and software integration issues in real-world environments.
* Feedback Loop: Observe how the system is used operationally. Identify failure points, gather user feedback, and translate these insights into technical requirements for the R&D team.
* Stakeholder Management: Communicate complex technical concepts with confidence to a diverse audience, ranging from operators in the field to senior military and civilian stakeholders.
What We Need From You
We are looking for competence, credibility, and technical pragmatism. You do not need to be a \"10x coder,\" but you must have a deep understanding of how software interacts with hardware and networks in the field.
* Experience: 5–10 years in software engineering, systems engineering, or a high-level technical field support role.
* Networking Fundamentals: Deep knowledge of IP networking, radio links, and connectivity troubleshooting is essential. You need to know why a packet isn't getting from the drone to the tablet.
* Python Proficiency: Practical experience with Python is required for scripting, data analysis, and debugging field tools.
* Credibility: You must be able to hold your own in a room with demanding military customers. You represent the company; we need professionalism without ego or theatrics.
* Problem Solving: A hands-on approach to fixing hardware/software integration issues under time pressure.
Desirable Background
* Ex-Signals / Comms: Ideally, you have a background in military signals or communications engineering, but without the \"baggage.\" We value the operational context, but we operate with the agility of a tech startup.
* Drone/UAS Experience: Understanding of MAVLink, flight controllers, or RF systems.
The Package
* Salary: £60k - £100k per annum.
* Relocation: Relocation assistance is available for candidates living more than 40 miles from Hereford.
* Work Pattern: 4 days a week onsite in Hereford, 1 day remote/flexible.
* Impact: You will see the immediate result of your work in the field, supporting users who rely on our technology for safety and mission success.
To Apply: Please submit your CV detailing your experience with field integration and networking troubleshooting. Due to the nature of our work, all applicants must be UK Nationals.