Job Summary
Help design the next generation of underwater surveillance systems by leading the software architecture of complex distributed platforms. ALTEN supports a critical programme that demands high‑integrity, safety‑related software developed to exacting standards. As a Software Architect, you’ll define architecture, guide design decisions, and ensure robustness across the system. Apply your expertise in C/C++, Java, and safety‑critical frameworks to shape software that supports defence operations worldwide.
Key Details
Location: On‑site – Manchester (5 days/week)
Experience Level: 8+ years in Software Engineering
Clearance: SC Clearance with no caveats (5 Years in the UK minimum)
Key Responsibilities
* Define and maintain the software architecture for a large distributed system within a safety‑critical defence domain.
* Oversee design reviews, mentor engineers, and lead architectural governance throughout the development lifecycle.
* Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to align architecture with system‑level requirements.
* Ensure compliance with safety standards such as DO‑178, DEF STAN, IEC 61508, IEC 62304, and ISO 26262.
* Contribute to Software FMEA, risk analysis, and high‑integrity coding practices.
* Produce technical documentation to support project delivery and certification.
Qualifications
* 8+ years of experience in software engineering and architecture.
* Strong knowledge of C/C++ and Java, and experience with toolchains and development environments.
* Experience designing safety‑critical or safety‑related software in regulated industries.
* Proficiency in unit testing, static analysis, and software lifecycle management.
* Expertise in Software FMEA and architectural fault handling.
* Skilled in writing technical documentation for complex systems.
Soft Skills & Collaboration
* Excellent communication and leadership skills for cross‑functional collaboration.
* Ability to mentor teams and influence technical decisions.
* Adaptable, proactive, and effective in fast‑paced Defence environments.
Desirable Skills
* Experience with UML, SysML, or other modelling methods.
* Background in defence or mission‑critical systems.
* Knowledge of IP networking protocols and secure communications.
* Familiarity with virtualization and containerisation (Docker, VMware).
* Experience with Atlassian toolsets (JIRA, Confluence, Bitbucket).
* Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and tools like Jenkins, JFROG Artifactory.
Education
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
* OR technical military background with experience in high‑integrity, embedded, or defence systems.
Security Clearance Requirement
UKSV clearance required, with SC as minimum standard. DV clearance desirable but not mandatory. Candidates will complete BPSS as part of onboarding.
Benefits
* Personalised career path and rewarding management style.
* Opportunity to work on exciting engineering projects with premium customers.
* Competitive salary and benefits.
* Private medical insurance, pension scheme, cycle‑to‑work scheme.
* Social atmosphere, regular gatherings, team building.
* Flexible working arrangements where role‑dependent.
Why Join ALTEN
We foster a community of entrepreneurs and technology specialists, prioritise sustainable growth, and provide mentorship, internal university, and labs. Join us and build tomorrow today.
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