Lead Software Engineer

Your impact

We’re seeking Lead Software Engineers to step into pivotal Technical Authority roles across our Electronic Warfare (EW) and Future Combat Air programmes in Luton. This role combines deep technical oversight with influence, offering significant autonomy and responsibility for key software components or entire projects.

As a Software Technical Authority, you will serve as the most authoritative voice on software matters within your team. You'll collaborate directly with Software Project Engineering Leads to define commitments, navigate risks, and ensure delivery in line with Leonardo's internal software process (DEV
535) —predominantly DO-178C and related standards.

This opportunity builds the core competencies required for future advancement into Software Design Authority (DA) roles and potentially progression to Chief Engineer level. Structured training, mentorship, and on-the-job experience will support your growth.

• Ensure software architecture and design strategy aligns with platform and system goals
• Guide teams in applying Secure by Design and safety-critical principles
• Act as the arbiter of technical trade-offs and resolution of design challenges
• Lead technical risk identification and mitigation across software components
• Champion robust software assurance activities aligned with DO-178
• Support audits and design reviews as the accountable technical lead
• Ensure development activities meet internal governance and regulatory obligations
• Drive adherence to engineering lifecycle models, including traceability, verification and validation
• Promote best practices through design reviews and continuous improvement activities
• Coach and develop junior engineers in software engineering excellence
• Facilitate learning around lifecycle artefacts, DO-178C compliance, and technical reasoning
• Promote continuous improvement and peer-driven knowledge exchange
• Collaborate with systems, hardware and firmware teams to ensure coherent integration
• Act as liaison between development teams and project leadership
• Working with the Chief Software Engineer and System Design Authority, own the relationship between the project team and Design Integrity from a compliance and delivery perspective.

• Several years embedded software engineering experience in aerospace, defence, or other mission-critical domains
• Hands-on delivery of DO-178C software, with lifecycle experience from requirements through certification
• Leadership background, for example in architectural design, risk mitigation, or technical governance
• Ideally strong domain and product knowledge in Electronic Warfare or Future Combat Air platforms, integration, and mission context
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and coach engineers, with a focus on capability uplift
• Familiarity with legacy systems, export controls, interoperability, and long-term product evolution

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit: a text notice about security and vetting is available on our careers site.

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and…