Principal Consultant - Software Assurance & Certification

We have an opportunity for a Principal Consultant - Software Assurance & Certification, working within Programmable Elements Assurance, to provide senior technical leadership across complex aerospace, defence and safety-critical programmes.

You will provide independent assurance of safety-critical software, programmable hardware and associated development processes, working with clients, suppliers, Design Organisations, regulators and assurance bodies.

The role will involve reviewing complex engineering and safety evidence, identifying risks and gaps, developing robust assurance positions and providing practical recommendations to support certification, acceptance and safe operation.

At Principal level, you will also mentor technical teams, lead major work packages, support client relationships and contribute to the development of assurance methodologies and new business opportunities.

Skills & Experience:

• Extensive experience in software, programmable hardware or systems assurance within aerospace, defence or another safety-critical/regulated environment.
• Knowledge of DO-178C / ED-12C, DO-254 / ED-80, or equivalent high-integrity standards.
• Understanding of ARP4754A, ARP4761 or comparable systems safety and development frameworks.
• Experience assessing requirements, architecture, design, verification, configuration management and certification evidence across the development lifecycle.
• Strong understanding of systems safety, hazard analysis and assurance cases, including FHA, PSSA, SSA, FMEA and FTA.
• Ability to identify evidence gaps, non-compliances, technical risks and weaknesses, and develop proportionate recommendations.
• Experience working with regulators, certification authorities, Design Organisations, suppliers or independent assurance bodies.
• Proven ability to produce and defend high-quality technical reports, findings and assurance positions.
• Experience providing technical leadership, mentoring specialists and leading multidisciplinary work packages.
• Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills, with the confidence to challenge technical decisions and influence senior stakeholders.
• Degree or equivalent experience in software, electronic, systems, aerospace engineering, computer science, safety engineering or a related discipline.

Desirable: Chartered status or equivalent professional registration, experience with DEF STAN 00-055/00-056, IEC 61508, ISO 26262 or similar standards, and previous consultancy, bid or account-development experience.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing consultancy that values technical excellence, independent thinking, and delivering meaningful outcomes for our clients. Whether you're already recognised as a subject matter expert or ready to take the next step into a principal-level position, we'd love to hear from you.

*Due to secure the nature of the work, candidates will need to be eligible to gain SC Clearance and be a sole UK national for UK-eyes-only projects.