C++ Principal Software Engineer - Airborne

Your impact Would you like a once-in-a-generation opportunity to play a key role in a defence programme of national and international importance?

We are on the hunt for talented software engineers to support our Integrated Sensors & Protection line of business, developing advanced technology for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). GCAP will deliver Tempest, the sixth-generation combat aircraft for the Royal Air Force and partner nations.

We want you to develop a new generation of features and capabilities using innovative software solutions for the GCAP Integrated Communications System (ICS).

Direct industry experience is not required; we are happy to explore all backgrounds and help develop all our software engineers.

This role is based at the Leonardo UK Southampton site.

What You’ll Bring You will have a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronics, or a related discipline (or significant relevant experience), together with experience delivering software solutions within a complex engineering environment.

Essential Experience

• Strong C++ programming skills
• Development of Linux applications
• TCP/IP

It is useful if you have some of these skills:

• Developing C# applications
• Familiarity with formal software lifecycle processes including Requirements Management, Design, Implementation, Test and Integration
• Familiarity with Configuration Management process and tools e.g. git
• Software design experience e.g. SysML / UML
• Continuous Integration (CI) tools
• Knowledge of Docker, Virtual Machines
• Knowledge of high integrity software development practices e.g. RTCA DO-178C, AUTOSAR / MISRA C/C++
• Software development for ARM processors

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, willingness to learn, and a passion for solving complex engineering challenges.

Leonardo operates a flexible working policy that allows working from home. However, this project will require time onsite regularly, but it will vary depending on the work being performed.

Security Clearance 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) will apply, this includes meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit: https://careers.uk.leonardo.com/gb/en/security-and-vetting

Why join us 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 employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
• Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website.

Leonardo UK operates a grade-based salary framework with broad bands. The salary range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band, and is benchmarked against the external market. Exceptions above the standard range are managed through governance controls to protect internal equity.

Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 62,000 people worldwide including 9,500 across 10 main sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Be part of something bigger - apply now!

Primary Location: GB - Southampton

Contract Type Permanent

Hybrid Working Hybrid