Principal C++/Qt Software Engineer Outside IR35 at Puma Berry Ltd, Portsmouth, £500 per day

Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced L4 Principal C++/Qt Software Engineer (Outside IR35) with extensive commercial Qt expertise and advanced modern C++ skills to join a long-term programme developing advanced software on Embedded Linux platforms.

This is a 12+ month contract (Outside IR35) with a strong likelihood of extension. You will provide technical leadership while remaining hands-on across software development, architecture, and mentoring within an Agile/SAFe environment.

If you have a proven track record delivering complex C++/Qt applications, leading engineering teams, and building software for Embedded Linux systems, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and delivery of high-quality software using modern C++ and Qt on Embedded Linux platforms
• Provide technical leadership through mentoring, contributing to architecture, and driving engineering best practices (code reviews, coding standards, CI/CD)
• Collaborate with Product Managers and cross-functional teams to support backlog refinement, estimation, and Agile/SAFe delivery
• Champion secure software development, continuous improvement across the SDLC, and support knowledge transfer and team capability growth

Experience

• 11+ years' commercial software development experience with extensive Qt and expert-level modern C++ development skills.
• Proven experience developing software on Embedded Linux platforms and delivering commercially released applications.
• Demonstrable experience leading engineering teams, contributing to software architecture, and mentoring developers.
• Strong understanding of Agile/SAFe methodologies, code reviews, CI/CD, secure software development, and software engineering best practices.

Desirable

• Experience with OpenGL, Python, Android, or Cloud/IoT technologies.
• Experience working within the defence, aerospace, or other safety-critical industries.
• Familiarity with AI-assisted development tools and modern software engineering practices.
• Experience of working in Agile/SAFe environments with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Requirements

• Deep commercial experience with Qt and modern C++ development
• Strong experience developing software for Embedded Linux platforms
• Proven ability to lead teams and influence technical direction
• Ability to work effectively in a client-facing Agile/SAFe environment
• Right to work in the UK: Applicants must be UK Citizens or hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Pay: Up to £500.00 per day

Experience:

• C++: 10 years (required)
• Qt: 6 years (required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Fareham PO15 5RL