Job Description
Software Product Manager – Real-Time / Distributed Systems Platform
We’re looking for a Software Product Manager to own the strategy, architecture and delivery of a next-generation engineering platform used across simulators, HiL rigs, robotics systems and distributed real-time environments.
This role is ideal for someone who’s fluent in real-time systems and robotics/automotive middleware who wants end-to-end ownership of a complex technical platform. You’ll define the roadmap, shape the architecture, translate engineering requirements into actionable features and guide the growth of a small but expanding team.
What You’ll Do
* Own the long-term product vision and roadmap for a multi-site, distributed engineering platform.
* Shape strategy across distributed systems, robotics middleware and simulator/test-rig connectivity.
* Translate deeply technical requirements into clear, prioritised platform features.
* Support architectural decisions spanning simulators, HiL rigs, embedded controllers and distributed compute.
* Enable seamless integration between physical and virtual systems: simulators, HiL, robotics, zonal/central compute, MIL/SIL and multi-site environments.
* Drive platform reliability: determinism, availability, data correctness and robust fault-tolerance.
* Establish workflows for versioning, dependency management, automated integration testing and release governance.
* Support hiring and development of junior engineers and help shape the team culture.
You’ll thrive here if you have…
Technical Fluency
* Strong understanding of distributed computer systems and real-time constraints.
* Experience with RTOS, deterministic loops, scheduling.
* Knowledge of robotics/autonomy middleware (ROS2, DDS, ZeroMQ, LCM, gRPC).
* Understanding of automotive comms (CAN/CAN-FD, SOME/IP, TSN Ethernet).
* Familiarity with HIL/SIL/MIL, FMI/FMU and real-time simulation environments.
* Awareness of C++ constraints, embedded platforms and real-time software design.
Product Leadership
* Experience owning a technical platform or major subsystem end-to-end.
* Ability to work across cross-functional engineering teams and technical stakeholders.
* Skilled at structuring and prioritising complex, deeply technical backlogs.
Domain Background (any of the following):
* Automotive software / simulation
* Robotics or autonomy
* Distributed systems engineering
* Real-time control systems
* Aerospace, motorsport or industrial automation
Nice to Have
* Experience with multi-site distributed test environments
* Exposure to digital twin or virtual development toolchains
* Understanding of cybersecurity considerations for high-availability systems
This is a permanent role based out of the Rugby / Warwickshire area (Hybrid – 2 days on-site per week) - if you would like to have a confidential conversation to explore this opportunity further, please apply for considersation.