Software Engineer

MCA is a UK SME specialising in high-integrity applications for safety- and security-critical systems, with expertise in embedded and real-time systems, formal methods, secure systems (including CHERI) and networks.

The role

This is a great opportunity to join MCA on a new R&D project. You’ll be a core member of a small engineering team building a new network security product, taking it from early design through to a working prototype.

What you’ll be doing

• Designing and implementing network protocol components in Python and C/C++

• Building and testing components on Unix/Linux-based CHERI systems

• Integrating components into the full system and testing against third-party network equipment

What we’re looking for

Essential

• Strong C/C++ development experience on Unix/Linux platforms

• Strong Python development experience, especially protocol-level communications

• Experience with network protocol implementation or low-level systems programming

• Enjoys working in a small team, taking direction from the technical lead, and learning new technologies such as CHERI

Desirable

• CHERI experience (or experience with capability-based or memory-safe architectures) is highly desirable

• Comfortable working with AI, ideally with experience of co-development with AI

Experience: around 3–7 years in relevant roles; more experienced candidates are also welcome.

What we offer

• A full-time, fixed-term employment contract (PAYE) to 31 August 2027, starting January 2027, with the potential to continue beyond that

• A competitive salary in line with your experience

• Remote, flexible working (UK-based) within a small, highly experienced engineering team, with occasional travel for events and meetings

• Hands-on work with CHERI capability-based hardware, a UK-led secure computing technology

Eligibility

You must be based in the UK and already have the right to work in the UK; we are unable to offer visa sponsorship. Any offer is subject to right-to-work checks and satisfactory references, and may be subject to further security checks given the nature of the work.

How to apply

Apply through LinkedIn with your CV and a short note on your relevant experience. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

MCA is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people, whatever their background. If you need any adjustments to the application or interview process, please tell us when you apply.

We use the information in your application only to assess it, and handle it in line with UK data protection law.