Lead Software Engineer

I.T. & Communications
Midlothian
March 1, 2026
Permanent
Urgent

Job Description

Lead Software Engineer – Flight Systems, Space Technology – Scotland
Does the idea of working at the forefront of the space industry excite you?
Bright Purple are hiring for a leading UK-based space technology scale-up, with a 10+ year history of developing software used on real spacecraft missions worldwide. Its products help organisations develop reliable, reusable flight software more quickly, using modern engineering approaches. The business is employee-owned, growing rapidly, and driven by a strong culture of technical excellence, collaboration and long-term thinking.
Don’t worry – you do not require prior space or satellite experience. The skills we are looking for are those of a senior embedded software engineer, industry-agnostic!
What is in it for you:

  • Salary up to £65,000
  • Flexibleworking with the occasional visits to Edinburgh office
  • 36 days annual leave
  • 6% employer pension contribution
  • Health cash plan, life assurance and enhanced sick pay
  • Employee ownership and a genuine voice in the business
  • Ongoing investment in learning, development and conferences
  • A supportive, inclusive culture where your work directly impacts space missions

The Role:

  • This is a senior, hands-on technical leadership role with responsibility for a flagship flight software product used across multiple space missions.
  • Youll guide its technical direction, influence future product development, and work closely with engineers, customers and commercial teams to ensure the software continues to meet demanding real-world needs.
  • Alongside product ownership, youll lead and develop a team of flight software engineers, setting technical standards, supporting career growth and creating an environment where high-quality engineering thrives.

    • Must-Have Skills & Experience:

    • Strong background in embedded software engineering, with significant professional experience
    • Excellent C programmingskills, including work on embedded platforms (e.g. ARM-based systems)
    • Solid understanding of operating systems, multitasking and low-level hardware interaction
    • Experience leadingtechnical design and solving complex engineering problems
    • Comfortable working across the full software lifecycle, from requirements to delivery
    • Experience working in a Linux-based development environment with version control and CI principles
    • Ability to communicate clearly, lead by example and support the growth of other engineers
    • Confident communication skills

    Please APPLY NOW with your most up-to-date CV for consideration.
    Bright Purple is an equal opportunities employer: we are proud to work with clients who share our values of diversity and inclusion in our industry.

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