> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2951809-principal-software-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2951809-principal-software-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Principal Software Engineer

- **Company:** Filton
- **Location:** Filton, UK
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Software Quality, Embedded C, Embedded Software, FreeRTOS, Real-Time Operating Systems, Software Engineering, Safety Critical Systems, DO-178B
- **Published:** September 17, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.apply4u.co.uk/jobs/principal-software-engineer/47338825

## About the Role

standards * Collaborating with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders About You To be successful, you'll bring: * Strong experience in embedded software development within safety-critical environments * Expertise in RTOS (e.g. FreeRTOS or similar) * Proficiency in C (and ideally low-level/processor-level development) * Proven leadership or team management experience * Knowledge of standards such as DO-178C, ISO 26262, or IEC 61508 (highly desirable) What's on Offer * Salary up to £80,000 * Hybrid working (3 days onsite) * Bonus + enhanced pension * Strong career progression and exposure to cutting-edge technology * Supportive, collaborative engineering culture If you're looking to step into a senior leadership role while staying close to the technology, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact

## Description

Principal Embedded Software Engineer Bristol (Hybrid) Salary: Up to £80,000 I'm currently recruiting on behalf of a highly innovative technology business working at the forefront of embedded safety-critical systems. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Principal Embedded Software Engineer to lead the development of cutting-edge real-time software used in complex regulated environments. The Role You'll take ownership of a team developing a safety-critical Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) used across advanced engineering sectors. This is a leadership role combining hands-on technical expertise with team management and project delivery. Key responsibilities include: * Leading, mentoring, and growing a team of embedded software engineers * Overseeing full software lifecycle: design, development, testing, and deployment * Driving best practices in embedded C development and code quality * Managing multiple projects, ensuring delivery to high safety and quality


## Related Videos

- [Cyber Security: Small, and Large!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/259-cyber-security-small-and-large)
- [Why Your Best Mediors Never Become Seniors (And How to Fix It)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2108-why-your-best-mediors-never-become-seniors-and-how-to-fix-it)
- [Robots are coming into the wild! Full-Stack Robotics Engineers, be ready!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/479-robots-are-coming-into-the-wild-full-stack-robotics-engineers-be-ready)
- [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips)
- [When Agents Meet Legacy: Never Change a Running System](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100320-when-agents-meet-legacy-never-change-a-running-system)
- [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch)

## Related Articles

- [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard)
- [The Ultimate Software Engineer Career Path Guide for 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/146-the-ultimate-software-engineer-career-path-guide-for-2023)
- [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering)
- [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs)
- [Software Engineer Salary London](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/252-software-engineer-salary-london)
- [How Much Does a Software Engineer Make? Realistic Software Engineering Salaries](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/425-how-much-does-a-software-engineer-make-realistic-software-engineering-salaries)