Software Engineering Team Lead (algorithms, static analysis, R&D, aerospace)

What will you love about being a Software Engineering Team Lead at Rapita? 

As a Software Engineering Team Lead at Rapita, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our software. From concept to deployment, you’ll help bring innovative features to life and see them used in cutting-edge international aerospace projects.

You’ll lead a small, talented team while remaining hands-on with technically challenging work - developing software that involves complex algorithms, advanced data structures, language parsing, and more.

This is a unique opportunity to guide a close-knit group of engineers within a larger, collaborative development team. You’ll be part of a supportive and motivated environment, committed to delivering high-quality software that powers the next generation of low-carbon aerospace technology. 

What you will be doing

• Lead, mentor, and support a small team of skilled engineers.
• Drive the development of our flagship RVS software—adding new features, resolving issues, and continuously improving quality.
• Develop high-quality code using a range of languages and technologies, including Python, C, C++, Ada, Java, SQL, GitLab, and more.
• Engage with customers to understand their needs and translate them into well-designed software features.
• Contribute to research and innovation, helping shape the future of our technology and seeing your innovative ideas through to implementation.
• Collaborate with global leaders in aerospace, space, and automotive industries.
• Support sales and marketing by generating technical content that showcases new features and capabilities. 

What would make you great at this role?

We’re looking for a talented and driven software engineer with a strong foundation in computer science and software engineering, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative mindset. You’ll thrive in this role if you’re motivated, innovative, and bring a proactive, “can-do” attitude. Ideally, you’ll bring some of the following: 

• A strong software background and excellent programming skills.
• Experience leading teams or managing software development projects.
• A degree or PhD level qualification in computer science or a related field.
• A strong background in language semantics, especially C/C++.
• The desire and ability to solve complex technical problems.
• Proficiency in one or more of the following languages: Python, C, C++, Ada, Java, SQL. (That said, we value the ability to learn new technologies over specific language expertise.)
• Focus on quality - experience with real-time or embedded systems, safety-critical or high-reliability software, or domains like aerospace or automotive is a plus. Familiarity with standards such as DO-178C, ISO 26262, or IEC 61508 is beneficial. 

This role is best suited to candidates with prior experience leading teams. However, it may also be a great opportunity for someone who has demonstrated leadership through peer mentoring and project management, and is ready to take the next step into team management.

We offer a competitive salary, tailored to reflect your experience and capabilities.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK.

This role is based at our York office, with flexible working times and options for hybrid-remote working