Lead Software Engineer

Lead Software Engineer

Location: Reading, RG30 1DZ
Working hours: 37.5 hours, Monday – Friday
Salary: Competitive

About BigSis

BigSis, is a UK start-up, is applying robotics and artificial intelligence to transform the production of sterile male insects, which are used for chemical-free control of pest insects. BigSis has developed a pilot automated production line and is now focused on scaling to millions of insects per week.

We look to attract candidates who can demonstrate behaviours in sync with our company values which are:

• Spirit – Having innovation, team and fighting spirit!
• Fluid – Working in a flexible way and being open to change
• Trustworthy – Includes honesty, integrity, respect and being approachable
• Growth mindset – Learn and grows & embraces challenges
• Succeeding together – Collaborate and celebrates success together

Purpose and responsibilities

We’re looking for a Lead Software Engineer to join our small, dynamic, and forward-thinking team. In this role, you’ll play a key part in developing the BigSis automated production systems, contributing across both embedded systems and cloud-based infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take full ownership of the software used on assigned BigSis production modules.
• Lead the development and maintenance of assigned operational and field applications for the BigSis Insect Rearing System.
• Mentor and support junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Define, implement, and maintain software development tools, frameworks, and best practices.

About the Role:

This is a hands-on and technically challenging position that involves:

• Developing embedded software across a range of production modules.
• Contributing to systems that backhaul operational data to AWS for storage, monitoring, and analytics.
• Collaborating on AI models used to process capsules within the rearing system.
• Taking end-to-end ownership of field delivery and operations applications and tools.

Qualifications and experience

We're seeking someone who thrives in a start-up environment and is comfortable delivering functional, "good-enough" solutions under time pressure—while continuously refining and improving the systems over time.

Essential

• 2:1 degree in computer science or relevant engineering discipline
• 5+ year Software Engineering lead experience, including system architect, mentoring, and code reviews
• Python/C++, PyTorch, Numpy, Pandas, Tensorflow, Computer Vision, OpenCV, JavaScript, HTML
• Hands-on experience designing and implementing control mechanisms for production line automation
• Solution orientated with an ability to think outside the box

Desirable experience

• Design of low power automated systems and/or equipment, e.g. animatronics, vending machines or kitchen appliances
• Use of embedded microcontrollers/IDEs, e.g. Raspberry Pi, Okdo, Tinker Edge R
• AWS cloud storage and data analytics
• Android / IoS mobile applications
• Experience working with 3rd party remote software developers
• Experience working with stepper motors, servo motors, automatic material handling systems
• Experience coaching and mentoring junior engineers or leading product development team
• Project management skills or certification
• Design and assembly of electronic circuits, electrical panels and/or PCBs
• Work in an environment with hygiene and/or regulatory requirements, such as the food, cosmetics or medical sectors

You need to be comfortable working with live insects, including spending time in the hot and humid insect rearing area. Insects and their growth cells are very small, so you need good fine work skills.

Application Process

To be considered for this role, please send a CV and cover letter explaining why you think you are the right person for this job. Please include information about your education, work experience and current salary.

BigSis is an equal opportunities employer. Applicants will be considered without attention to age, sex, race, disability, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment and religious background.

You may also have experience in the following: Senior Software Developer, Senior .Net Developer, Lead .Net Developer, Lead Developer, Software Engineer, Technical Lead, Senior Software Engineer, Senior Web Developer, Programmer, Software Developer, Developer, etc.

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