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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Controls and Software Engineer - **Company:** Xtrac Ltd - **Location:** Thatcham, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Excel, Microprocessors, Ethernet, FlexRay, Failure Mode Effects Analysis, Software Requirements Analysis, Verification and Validation (Software), Test Data - **Published:** September 24, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=325c1b0e04a8dd2e ## About the Role * Minimum of BEng or BSc (or similar), Degree or higher in mechanical, mechatronic, electrical, or electronic engineering, * 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, * 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, 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. * Work closely with the mechanical design teams to support the design and integration of Control assemblies and systems within the transmission to optimise overall performance, measured against the system requirements. * Analyse data logs to determine system performance, support issue resolution or identify development paths. * Support in-house and off-site dyno and vehicle tests, when requested. * To take ownership of and deliver project requirements. * To learn from your compatriots and develop your own ability. MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES * To conduct yourself as a professional engineer befitting of the organisation. * To take responsibility for controls-based systems projects and to undertake such projects to the requirements of the Head of Control Systems and Electronics. * To deliver controls development activities on time to the specification, making consideration for project cost. * To technically supervise and co-ordinate engineers to undertake controls 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 and reports where appropriate. * To mentor staff, new starters and students as required. * To ensure that all Controls development activities are concluded in an appropriate manner. * To work within the Integrated Business Process (IBP) framework to manage and prioritise work as required. * To follow and develop 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., * 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) - [Software stack under and over the hood of the fastest accelerating car in the world](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/221-software-stack-under-and-over-the-hood-of-the-fastest-accelerating-car-in-the-world) - [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) - [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) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk)