Software Engineer – HIL Simulator Development

About the role

We are looking for a Software Engineer to design, develop and integrate a Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HIL) simulator for spacecraft avionics. You will work closely with system engineering teams and support technical exchanges across space engineering disciplines.

Key responsibilities

• Analyse technical requirements and contribute to system and software design.
• Develop and implement simulator software primarily in C++, using Java for test development.
• Integrate, test and deliver HIL test benches within a Linux environment.
• Interface with hardware and support system integration activities.
• Provide technical follow‑up and coordination with internal and external teams.
• Support verification, validation and testing throughout delivery.

Required profile

• Strong practical experience in C++ and Java.
• Real‑time software design and debugging in Linux.
• Proven experience in HIL design and implementation.
• Solid understanding of multi‑process or multi‑threaded architectures for hardware interfacing.
• Experience with testing methodologies and unit‑testing frameworks.
• Object‑oriented analysis and design using UML (or equivalent).
• Understanding of machine‑to‑machine communication protocols.
• Strong knowledge of the software development lifecycle, design patterns and coding standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with CI/CD practices.
• Knowledge of spacecraft avionics systems, ECSS software standards and space communication protocols such as SpaceWire, MIL‑STD‑1553 and ECSS CAN.

Required skills

• C++
• Java
• Linux
• Real‑time software development
• Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HIL)
• Multi‑threading / multi‑process programming
• UML
• Unit testing frameworks
• Design patterns
• CI/CD
• SpaceWire
• MIL‑STD‑1553
• ECSS CAN
• ECSS software standards
• Spacecraft avionics systems

What we offer

• A fulfilling, stimulating work environment focused on career development.
• Commitment to human‑centred values and a Great Place To Work® certification for five consecutive years.
• Opportunities to work on mission‑critical aerospace and defence programmes across multiple UK locations.