Headquartered in Bristol (UK), we combine modern engineering methods with cutting-edge commercial technology to create adaptable, mission-critical systems. We focus on solving the tough challenges that others overlook, ensuring our customers can operate effectively in an ever-changing world.

We’re looking for an adaptable Software Engineer who thrives on solving real-world problems and is comfortable working across different domains. This role is focused on Kotlin/Java and Android systems engineering, contributing to the development of robust, scalable solutions.

We’re growing our team and looking for talented engineers to work on exciting projects that deliver real value. You’ll join a diverse and collaborative team at Rowden, where you’ll contribute to a hands-on engineering culture, share knowledge and lessons with the wider team, and continuously learn and grow.

Key areas of responsibility As a Software Engineer at Rowden, these are some of the core areas you’ll be working in:

• Developing and testing standalone Android apps and plugins.
• Designing and implementing core components of an Android-based operating system, such as kernel modules, device drivers, memory management, and process scheduling.
• Developing system libraries and APIs that facilitate communication between components and applications.
• Debugging complex issues including handling concurrency problems, memory leaks, and system crashes, ensuring stability and reliability.
• Developing and executing comprehensive test plans, including unit tests, integration tests, and performance tests, to validate the operating system’s robustness and stability.
• Utilising version control systems, particularly Git, to manage and track changes to our codebase.
• Working within Agile frameworks, participating in sprints, stand-ups, and other Agile practices.

About You We are looking for someone who is passionate about technology and who actively invests in their technical skills and abilities. You’ll be constantly learning and developing in this role, but some key skills and experience you should already have include:

• Proficient in Kotlin/Java and C++, with experience in developing, testing, and debugging software applications.
• Capable of writing clean, efficient, and maintainable code, utilising object-oriented programming principles, data structures, and algorithms.
• Knowledge of additional languages such as Python, Rust, Go, or C# is a bonus.
• Familiar with software development tools, version control systems (such as Git), and build tools.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing project requirements.
• Experience working on both legacy and modern applications.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Collaborative mindset, with experience working in cross-functional teams in Agile frameworks.
• Exhibits a high level of professionalism, reliability, and effective communication skills.
• Able to work independently with minimal supervision while also contributing effectively to team goals.

Security Focus:

• Understanding of software security principles, with a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks.
• For Android specialists: in-depth knowledge of Android security practices and experience developing secure, resilient, and compliant mobile solutions.

Highly Desirable Experience:

• Experience in regulated sectors delivering complex networked systems, such as defence, national security, telecommunications, financial services, or automotive industries.
• For Android-focused roles:
  • Experience in custom Android OS and driver development.
  • Knowledge of the Android build system and source code.
  • Understanding of Android OS architecture, including Linux kernel-level programming.
  • Experience with the Android SDK, application lifecycle, and UI/UX design principles.

Working at Rowden We are committed to building a flexible, inclusive, and enabling company. Our aim is to create a diverse team of talented people with unique skills, experience, and backgrounds, so please apply and come as you are!

We also recognise the importance of flexible working and support this wherever we can. We typically operate a flexible, hybrid-working model, with an average 3 days in the office each week (dependent on the role). We welcome the opportunity to discuss flexibility, part-time working requirements and/or workplace adjustments with all our applicants.

Rowden is a Disability Confident Committed company, and we actively encourage people with disabilities and health conditions to apply for our roles. Please let us know your requirements early on so that we can make sure you have everything you need up front to help make the recruitment process and experience as easy as possible.

Finally, if you feel that you don’t meet all the criteria included above but have transferable skills and relevant experience, we’d still love to hear from you!