Software Engineer / Senior Software Engineer

Job Description

Exciting Opportunities in Software Engineering at Diamond Light Source

At Diamond Light Source, we are proud to operate one of the globe’s premier scientific hubs. Our UK-based synchrotron generates incredibly powerful light beams across a vast spectrum from far-infrared to hard X-rays to explore the inner workings of materials. This cutting-edge tech supports over 8,000 researchers tackling everything from virus studies and vaccine development to green energy innovations and nanoscale advancements.

Our engineering teams build and maintain software that powers every aspect of our operations. This ranges from fine-tuned control of hardware in the synchrotron and beamlines, using sophisticated techniques, to managing experiment workflows, data storage, analysis, visualization, beamtime applications, and even remote experiment planning. Collaborating closely with top scientists, our software experts create reliable, forward-thinking tools that keep us leading in research.

What You Will Be Doing

We’re on the lookout for talented Software Systems Engineers or Senior Software Systems Engineers to join our Beamline Controls team. In this dynamic, research-driven setting, you’ll team up with elite scientists and engineers to solve complex challenges as we roll out new beamlines for our Diamond-II upgrade.

Our control systems span a mix of distributed environments, including embedded hardware for direct instrument management and Linux-based interfaces for operators. We rely heavily on open-source tools like the EPICS framework. You will dive into areas like motion systems, sensors, robotics, automation, and high-speed data collection.

Your key contributions will include:

• Gathering needs from users and designing software solutions.
• Coding, testing, documenting, and rolling out new features.
• Collaborating with beamline designers, builders, and operators—scientists, engineers, and tech specialists alike.

We primarily use languages like C, C++, and Python, plus specialized ones for automation and robotics. As part of our core dev team, you could help shape the software backbone for Diamond-II experiments, from hardware integration to high-level scanning tools. Tech stack highlights include:

• Containerization with Docker and orchestration via Kubernetes.
• FPGA-based hardware syncing for precise timing.
• Logic for scan sequences.
• Python app development.
• CI/CD pipelines.
• Support for ultra-fast detectors.
• Machine learning applications.
• Kinematics and path planning for robots.

We will place you at either a mid-level (Grade 4) or senior (Grade 5) position based on your expertise, background, and credentials.

Who We are Looking For

You should hold a degree or have equivalent hands-on experience that demonstrates your skills. We’re after folks who’ve navigated the entire software dev process with modern languages, prioritizing clean design, user-friendly interfaces, and solid principles.

Familiarity with the tech we use is a plus, especially if you’ve bridged hardware and software like in IoT, robotics, or automation setups. Bonus points for handling big, intricate codebases, Linux app dev, or real-time systems.

Perks and Support

We value work-life harmony, so our benefits are designed to help you thrive. Enjoy 26 days of vacation plus holiday shutdowns, public holidays, two days for volunteering, and flexible schedules. Our top-tier pension plan is defined benefit, and onsite perks include childcare, dining options, fitness centers, and more. Relocation help is available if needed.

Ready to Join Us?

Apply online by clicking the button above. Specify if you’re going for Software Systems Engineer or Senior Software Systems Engineer, and share why you’re a great fit.

As a sponsor for visas, we can often support international candidates at the senior level. For the entry-level role, sponsorship is limited—typically only for ‘new entrants’ under certain criteria. Check out the UK’s Skilled Worker visa details on GOV.UK for more.

Applications close on February 8, 2026, but apply soon—we might chat with strong candidates early!