Lead Software Architect (Systems & High-Performance C++)
We are looking for a Lead Software Architect to steer the technical vision for our next generation of high-performance, safety-critical systems. In this role, you will be responsible for the high-level design and architectural integrity of complex software suites where millisecond latency and mission-critical reliability are non-negotiable.
You will act as the bridge between system requirements and engineering execution, ensuring our software remains modular, maintainable, and robust against evolving threats.
Key Responsibilities
* Architectural Leadership: Define and maintain the software roadmap, selecting appropriate patterns (SOA, Microservices, or Monolithic as required) for high-concurrency environments.
* Systems Design: Architect low-level systems using C++ (17/20/23), focusing on memory management, hardware abstraction, and real-time processing.
* Modernization: Lead the transition of legacy frameworks into modern, containerized, or modular architectures while maintaining strict backward compatibility.
* Technical Governance: Establish coding standards, perform high-level design reviews, and mentor senior engineers in best practices for performance tuning and safety-critical logic.
* Integration: Oversee the interface between software and specialized hardware (FPGAs, DSPs, or high-speed networking gear).
Requirement
Core Languages
Mastery of C++ (Modern standards) and familiarity with Rust or Ada for safety-critical components.
Deep knowledge of Design Patterns, SOLID principles, and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).
Middleware
Experience with high-speed messaging/data distribution (e.g., DDS, gRPC, or ZeroMQ).
Expert in Linux internals, RTOS (e.g., VxWorks, QNX), and hardware-software co-design.
DevOps/CI
Architecting automated build pipelines for embedded systems using CMake, Conan, or Jenkins.
Essential Qualifications
* Experience: Extensive background in software engineering with significant time spent in an Architect or Principal-level role.
* Sector Knowledge: Experience in Defense, Aerospace, Automotive (Autonomous Driving), or High-Frequency Trading is highly desirable.
* Security Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC level minimum).
* Communication: Exceptional ability to explain complex technical trade-offs to non-technical stakeholders and executive leadership.
What We Offer
* Competitive Salary: Highly competitive package based on architectural seniority.
* Pension: Significant employer contributions (up to 14% total).
* Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and Flexi-Leave schemes (up to 15 additional days).
* Professional Growth: Opportunity to lead technical strategy on multi-billion pound, multi-year engineering programs.
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