Lead Software Engineer

Lead Software Engineer

Location: Reading
Working Hours: 37.5 hours/week, Monday to Friday
Reporting to: VP of Engineering

About the Organisation

We are a UK-based start-up applying robotics and artificial intelligence to revolutionise pest control. Our focus is on the automated production of sterile male insects, offering a sustainable, chemical-free solution to pest management. With a successful pilot production line in place, we are now scaling to millions of insects per week.

Our values guide everything we do:

• Spirit – Innovation, teamwork, and determination
• Fluid – Flexibility and openness to change
• Trustworthy – Integrity, honesty, and respect
• Growth Mindset – Embracing challenges and continuous learning
• Succeeding Together – Collaboration and shared success

Role Overview

We are seeking a Lead Software Engineer to join our dynamic and collaborative team. This is a hands-on, technically challenging role where you’ll lead the development of embedded and cloud-based software systems that power our insect rearing technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the software development lifecycle for assigned production modules.
• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of operational and field applications.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Define and implement software development tools, frameworks, and best practices.
• Collaborate on AI models and cloud infrastructure for data analytics and monitoring.

Technical Scope

• Develop embedded software for production automation modules.
• Build systems to backhaul operational data to AWS for analytics.
• Contribute to AI-driven capsule processing systems.
• Take ownership of field delivery and operations tools.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• 2:1 degree in Computer Science or a related engineering discipline.
• 5+ years in a software engineering leadership role.
• Proficiency in: Python, C++, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Numpy, Pandas, OpenCV, JavaScript, HTML.
• Experience with production line automation and control systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a solution-oriented mindset.

Desirable Experience

• Design of low-power automated systems (e.g., animatronics, vending machines).
• Embedded microcontrollers (e.g., Raspberry Pi, Okdo, Tinker Edge R).
• AWS cloud storage and analytics.
• Mobile app development (Android/iOS).
• Working with remote software teams.
• Experience with motors, material handling systems, and PCB design.
• Familiarity with regulated environments (e.g., food, cosmetics, medical).
• Project management skills or certifications.

Personal Attributes

• High energy, ambition, and a commitment to getting the job done.
• Integrity, openness, and a collaborative spirit.
• Adaptability to shifting priorities and new ideas.
• Creative, “can-do” attitude and strong communication skills.
• Comfortable working in warm, humid environments with live insects and performing fine manual tasks.