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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Controls Engineer - **Company:** Xtrac Ltd - **Location:** Thatcham, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Excel, Systems Engineering, AUTomotive Open System Architecture (AUTOSAR), Code Review, Microprocessors, Ethernet, FlexRay, Failure Mode Effects Analysis, MISRA C (C Programming Language), ISO/IEC 15504, Software Engineering, Software Requirements Analysis, Verification and Validation (Software), Test Data - **Published:** September 19, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=3912dddd1da64542 ## About the Role * A good understanding of transmission systems such as AMT, DCT, planetary auto, CVT, single speed reducers. * A technical focus towards developing and optimising full system solutions. * Have a knowledge of networking, communication, and calibration protocols CAN, CCP/XCP, UDS, LIN, FlexRay, Ethernet). * A working knowledge of, or application of: ISO26262 ASPICE IEC61508 MISRA C Autosar (optional) Desirable * Experience of both internal combustion engine and electric machine power sources. * Experience of electronic design, and a knowledge of microprocessors, wiring and sensor selection for use in automotive applications. * An understanding of software requirements and rig and vehicle calibration activities. Experience Essential * At least 5 years' experience as Mechanical, Electrical, or Controls Engineering in an automotive or motorsport environment. * Creation of requirements and specifications for powertrain control systems. * Supporting the maintenance of DVP&R and other project documentation. * Design of mechanical assemblies including concept schemes, detail design and assembly drawings with supporting verification documents. * Proactive involvement in project review processes such as HARA, TARA, DFMEA, peer reviews, calibration reviews. Skills/Abilities Essential * Ability to work closely with design teams, across multiple projects, to optimise the overall design and component integration to maximise the system performance. This could include initial concept work, as well as creating performance criteria and basic models to assist in component sizing. * A practical approach to development and problem solving. * Assist and guide component part selection, such as sensors, connectors and motors, working with suppliers and manufacturers during the design and production phases. * Ability to review logged test data from rigs and vehicles and interpret system performance and behaviour to a wider audience. This may include discussions, presentations, and reports across the Engineering department. * An awareness of verification and validation techniques using SIL, PIL, HIL, Test rigs and vehicle testing, and the ability to support testing including travel. * Excellent IT skills and a knowledge of Word and Excel. * Must be a strong communicator across a multi skilled organisation and especially in communicating technical ideas to staff members and to customers. * Must be organised, have a structured approach to problem solving. * Application of logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems. * Must have leadership skills and take responsibility for decisions taken. * Must demonstrate a disciplined methodical approach to work which is appropriate for the framework set by an ISO 9001:2008 organisation. Special Requirements of the role Essential * To work to a high and consistent standard especially when under pressure. * Be hands on, approachable and have a desire to resolve problems. * Able to build and develop team members. ## Description * To enact the requirements of the Head of Control Systems and Electronics. * Enact the delivery of multiple software and calibration projects in parallel by managing the software and calibration team. * To oversee and technically manage the design and incorporation of software within the transmission systems. * Organise and deliver cross department training to people to work on transmission controls. * Create, develop, and document processes to support reliable and on-time delivery of the product to the customer. * Work more closely with Advanced Engineering to build system engineering, testing and simulation capabilities. * To learn from your compatriots and develop your own ability. * Be keen to be hands on with software, hardware, test rigs and vehicles. MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES * To conduct yourself as a professional engineer befitting of the organisation. * To take responsibility for software development projects and to undertake such projects to the requirements of the Head of Control Systems and Electronics * To deliver software development activities on time to the specification, making consideration for project cost. * To technically supervise and co-ordinate engineers to undertake parallel software development projects. * To derive methods and tools to undertake activities to company standards and procedures. * To assist the Head of Control Systems and Electronics in the timescale and resource planning of projects. * To ensure continual improvement in the analysis of Xtrac product. * To approve work tasks, code reviews and reports where appropriate. * To mentor staff, new starters and students as required. * To ensure that all software development activities are concluded in an appropriate manner * To manage and prioritise your own work, and the team's work, as required. * To follow Xtrac standards, operating procedures and work instructions. * To offer continuous improvement in activities related to the job role. * To attend training and conference events as required * To observe Health and Safety rules at all times. * To carry out reasonable duties as requested by Management. Person Specification Education, Qualifications and Training Essential * Minimum of BEng or BSc (or similar), Degree or higher in software, mechanical, mechatronic, electrical, or electronic engineering Desirable * Incorporated or chartered engineer or actively striving to become incorporated or chartered. ## Related Videos - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [An inside look into the Group Application Store](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/670-an-inside-look-into-the-group-application-store) - [The Gashlycrumb Tinies of AI Networking You Must Know (or Languish!)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2067-the-gashlycrumb-tinies-of-ai-networking-you-must-know-or-languish) - [Dirty Tests And How To Clean Them](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/515-dirty-tests-and-how-to-clean-them) - [Agile work at CARIAD – Creating a customer web application for controlling the vehicle ](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/200-agile-work-at-cariad-creating-a-customer-web-application-for-controlling-the-vehicle) - [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker) ## Related Articles - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [Top Characteristics of a Software Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/166-top-characteristics-of-a-software-engineer) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard) - [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs)