Application Software Design Engineer
About Spectra Group (UK) Ltd
Founded in 2002, Spectra Group (UK) Ltd designs, engineers and manufactures secure tactical communications systems for defence and security organisations worldwide. Shaped by operational experience and built on sovereign UK engineering expertise, Spectra delivers assured, resilient voice and data connectivity for distributed forces operating in demanding environments.
With over 20 years’ experience and a team that includes former military specialists, the company combines practical operational insight with engineering-led development to deliver systems that are adaptable, interoperable and designed to evolve as mission requirements change.
Job Details
Build Software That Matters
Most software development roles focus on a small part of a larger application.
At Spectra, you’ll work across the whole thing.
You’ll help develop software solutions that support mission-critical communications systems used by defence and security organisations worldwide. Working alongside multidisciplinary engineering teams, you’ll contribute to requirements analysis, development, integration, testing and deployment, helping deliver software that moves from concept to real-world capability.
Founded in 2002, Spectra Group designs, engineers and manufactures tactical communications systems for defence and security organisations worldwide. Shaped by operational experience and built on sovereign UK engineering expertise, Spectra delivers assured, resilient voice and data connectivity for distributed forces operating in demanding environments.
The Role
This is a hands-on software engineering role focused on developing, integrating and supporting applications that form part of Spectra’s wider communications solutions.
You will work closely with product owners, engineers and users to transform requirements into practical, robust software solutions, while contributing throughout the entire development lifecycle.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Developing software applications from requirements through to release
- Working with product owners to refine and deliver system requirements
- Designing, integrating and testing software solutions
- Developing Android and desktop applications
- Collaborating with hardware, production and engineering teams
- Supporting system integration, testing, QA and release activities
- Analysing user feedback and enhancing software functionality
- Creating and presenting application prototypes
- Maintaining and improving existing software solutions
- Supporting users and acting as a technical advisor where required
- Contributing to project planning, estimation and delivery
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Front-end development experience in JavaScript, PHP and HTML
- Experience with Android Studio, Java and Kotlin
- Strong logical and analytical skills
- Experience working across the software development lifecycle
- Comfortable working within an agile development environment
- Ability to communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary engineering team
- Proven ability to manage priorities and work to deadlines
- British Citizen (required)
Desirable
- MySQL or Microsoft SQL experience
- Azure DevOps
- Linux and Debian
- CSS
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- 3D modelling and texturing experience
- Experience working with bespoke APIs
- Strong research and analytical capabilities
Why Spectra?
Real Ownership
Work across the complete software lifecycle rather than a narrow feature set or isolated component.
Multidisciplinary Engineering
Collaborate closely with software, hardware, manufacturing and systems engineers.
Real-World Impact
Develop software that supports communications systems deployed in demanding operational environments.
Agile and Collaborative
Join a small, experienced team where decisions are made quickly and contributions have a visible impact.
Engineering-Led Culture
Work in an organisation shaped by practical operational experience and focused on delivering effective technical solutions.
Package & Benefits
Salary
Competitive, based on experience (typically £38,000–£45,000)
Work-Life Balance
- 15:30 finish on Fridays
- 24 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Annual leave entitlement increases with service up to 30 days
Financial Benefits
- Up to 8% matched company pension
- Healthcare cashback plan
Working Environment
- Unique barn-conversion office setting in Herefordshire
- Free parking
- Free EV charging
- Complimentary drinks
Security Requirements
This position is open to British Citizens only.
Applicants should be aware that work may require security vetting as part of employment.
Apply
Interested in joining Spectra Group?
Apply using the form below or contact us for further information.
Application Software Design Engineer
Location: Herefordshire
Type: Full-time, Office-based
Apply now
Spectra Group Careers
About Spectra Group (UK) Ltd
Founded in 2002, Spectra Group is a British designer and manufacturer of secure communications systems used by defence, government and security organisations around the world. Our technologies help deliver reliable voice and data communications in some of the most challenging environments, including remote, contested and satellite-denied operational scenarios.
Based in Herefordshire, we combine the agility of a specialist engineering company with a global customer base. Our products are trusted by military and security users worldwide and have earned recognition for innovation, performance and operational effectiveness.
Working at Spectra means being part of a close-knit team where ideas are valued, innovation is encouraged, and individuals can make a genuine impact. Whether you are designing next-generation hardware, developing software-defined communications systems, supporting customers, or helping bring new technologies to market, your work will contribute directly to solutions used in real-world operations.
We are always interested in hearing from talented, motivated people who share our passion for engineering excellence, innovation and delivering capability that matters.
Explore our current opportunities below and discover how you can become part of the Spectra team.
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