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- Tasks: Lead engineering standards and provide technical assurance for a vital defence programme.
- Company: Join a respected team focused on national security and advanced technology solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy stability, competitive salary, and the chance to influence critical outcomes.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Defence technology while collaborating with senior stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Active SC clearance required; experience in Defence or Aerospace is essential.
- Other info: This role is pivotal for mission-critical, data-heavy systems.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Lead Engineer to provide technical leadership and assurance on a high-profile ISTAR programme supporting national defence capabilities. You’ll work across a multi-supplier environment, setting engineering standards, shaping governance structures and influencing long-term technology direction. This role is central to ensuring mission-critical, data-heavy systems are scalable, secure and fit for purpose.
Key responsibilities:
- Set engineering standards and lead on technical assurance.
- Collaborate with the Chief Engineer and Chief Architect on programme strategy.
- Lead on integration, testing, and governance for deployed solutions.
- Support the software factory roadmap and Defence Digital integration.
- Engage senior stakeholders across Defence Digital, the Army, and suppliers.
About you:
- Experience in Defence, Aerospace or secure, complex environments.
- Active SC clearance is essential; DV is a bonus.
- MOD or Defence Prime background is required.
- Strong software engineering background (you won’t be coding, but must be able to review and assess technical quality).
- Familiarity with Kafka, MongoDB, VMWare, API integration and data middleware.
- Confident working with senior stakeholders and acting as a trusted advisor.
Why join?
- Help shape the future of Defence technology and capability.
- Join a respected team influencing critical national security outcomes.
- Stability and industry reputation.
- Competitive basic.
Applicants must hold active SC clearance and have the right to work in the UK. If you bring domain expertise and strategic engineering leadership, I want to hear from you.
Lead Engineer employer: Talent
Contact Detail:
Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the Defence and Aerospace sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people who work in similar roles or companies. This can help you gain insights into the role and potentially get a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest technologies and methodologies relevant to the role, such as Kafka, MongoDB, and VMWare. Being able to discuss these technologies confidently during interviews will demonstrate your commitment and expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading teams and projects in complex environments. Be ready to provide examples of how you've set engineering standards and influenced technology direction in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific ISTAR programme and its objectives. Understanding the mission and challenges faced by the programme will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Lead Engineer position. Familiarise yourself with the key technologies mentioned, such as Kafka and MongoDB, and think about how your experience aligns with these.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in Defence, Aerospace, or secure environments. Emphasise your technical leadership skills and any previous roles where you've set engineering standards or worked with senior stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for Defence technology and your strategic vision for engineering leadership. Mention your active SC clearance and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this role.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your application is clear, concise, and professional, reflecting your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Leadership
Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading engineering teams and setting technical standards. Highlight specific examples where you've influenced technology direction or improved processes in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Since the role involves engaging with senior stakeholders, come equipped with examples of how you've successfully collaborated with various teams. Emphasise your ability to act as a trusted advisor and communicate complex technical concepts clearly.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Technologies
Brush up on your knowledge of Kafka, MongoDB, VMWare, and API integration. Be ready to discuss how these technologies can be applied in the context of national defence and how you would assess their technical quality.
✨Understand the Defence Landscape
Research the current trends and challenges in the Defence sector, particularly around ISTAR programmes. Being knowledgeable about the industry will demonstrate your commitment and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
