At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of scalable software solutions in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a leading tech firm focused on government and defence projects.
- Benefits: Competitive PAYE rate, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative Agile teams with a focus on clean code and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in national security while working with cutting-edge technologies.
- Qualifications: Strong Python and Django experience with 5+ years in software development.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
£ 550.17 PAYE rate – INSIDE IR35
CV Deadline: Weds 17th June COP (4.30)
Locations: Hybrid 2 days pw office based
- London (HQ): Old Admiralty Building, Admiralty Place, SW1A 2DY
- Manchester: Trinity Bridge House, 2 Dearmans Place, Salford, M3 5EG
- Birmingham: 23 Stephenson Street, B2 4BJ & Victoria Square House, B2 4AJ
- Cardiff: Tŷ William Morgan, 6 Narrative Drive, Central Square, CF10 1XS
- North East: Feethams House, Feethams, Darlington, DL1 5AD
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and delivery of scalable software solutions
- Translate user needs into technical outcomes
- Build secure, test-driven, high-quality code
- Support and maintain live services (performance & stability)
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (BA, UCD, Developers)
- Oversee development across multiple workstreams
- Drive continuous improvement of systems and processes
- Ensure integration across complex systems
Technical Environment
- Primary Stack: Python, Django
- Backend-focused with full-stack awareness
- Multiple user journeys (~27 frontend journeys)
- Government Digital Service (GDS) aligned delivery
Team Structure
- Total team: ~27 people
- 4 Agile squads (~7 per squad)
- Typical squad includes:
- 3 × Senior Developers
- Business Analyst
- UCD Specialists (Content, Interaction, Design)
Ways of Working
- Agile delivery model
- Daily stand-ups (~10am)
- Ticket-based workflow
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Focus on:
- Clean code
- Engineering standards
- Testing & documentation
Key Requirements
Essential
- Strong Python and Django experience
- Proven system design capability (end-to-end)
- Strong collaboration and communication skills
- Experience working in agile, multidisciplinary teams
- Ability to contribute to secure, structured environments
- Minimum 5+ years’ experience (ideally 8–10 years)
Top 3 Evaluation Criteria
- Python & Django technical expertise
- System design and architecture capability
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
Desirable
- Experience with GDS standards
- Public sector or defence-related experience
- Exposure to secure or regulated environments
Domain Context
- Defence / government environment (e.g. MOD, HMRC)
- Focus on export control systems (weapons, aircraft, sensitive goods)
- Security-focused work contributing to national interest
Candidate Profile
- T-shaped skillset (deep technical + broad system awareness)
- Strong delivery focus and efficiency
- Comfortable taking ownership and leading within squads
- Experience working in structured, governance-heavy environments
Lead Software Engineer employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
As a Lead Software Engineer at our esteemed organisation, you will thrive in a dynamic and collaborative work culture that prioritises innovation and continuous improvement. With hybrid working options available across multiple vibrant locations, including London and Manchester, we offer competitive pay, a commitment to employee growth through training and development, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects within the defence sector, ensuring your work has a direct impact on national interests.
Contact Details:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruitment Team
