At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge project integrating AI and rapid prototyping in defence technology.
- Company: FDM, a global leader in tech and business talent solutions with 35 years of experience.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional certifications.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in secure innovation while working with emerging technologies.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in software engineering, strong Python skills, and experience in R&D or prototyping.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
FDM is a global business and technology consultancy seeking a Software Engineer to support our client within the Defence and Secure Technology sector. This is an initial 6-month contract with potential to extend, offered on a hybrid basis in London with two days per week onsite. Candidates must be eligible for UK security clearance (or already hold clearance).
The role will support a new secure innovation project focused on early-stage R&D and rapid prototyping. The role will contribute to the delivery of a Technology Readiness Level 3 proof of concept, demonstrating how security-first engineering and emerging technologies such as AI can enhance collaboration and information sharing in high-trust, defence-aligned environments.
- Integrate AI capabilities, including but not limited to language models, into prototype solutions.
- Build maintainable and well-structured prototype code using Python, with clear documentation.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in software engineering, R&D, or prototyping-focused roles.
- Proven experience in rapid prototyping or R&D-focused software engineering roles.
- Strong proficiency in Python for building and iterating prototype solutions.
- Experience integrating AI or advanced analytics, including exposure to language models or similar technologies.
- Solid understanding of software and systems design principles, including user-centred design.
- Eligibility for UK security clearance or already clearable.
FDM is an award-winning global leader in tech and business talent solutions, backed by more than 35 years of industry experience. FDM has shown exponential growth throughout the years, firmly establishing itself as an award-winning employer, currently listed on the FTSE4Good Index and as a 2026 Financial Times UK ‘Best Employer’.
Diversity and Inclusion: FDM Group is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by federal, provincial or local laws.
Opportunity to obtain certifications from Microsoft, Salesforce, Cisco and more.
Senior Software Development Engineer I in London employer: FDM Group
FDM Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Defence and Secure Technology sector. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to valuable certifications from industry leaders like Microsoft and Salesforce, all while working in a hybrid model in London that promotes work-life balance. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to pioneering secure technology solutions in a supportive and inclusive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Software Development Engineer I in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the tech and defence sectors. Attend meetups or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your Python skills and understanding AI integration. We recommend doing some mock interviews with friends or using online platforms. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! If you’ve worked on any prototypes or R&D projects, make sure to have them ready to discuss. We love seeing real examples of your work, so consider creating a portfolio or GitHub repository to highlight your coding prowess.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team, so let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Software Development Engineer I in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience in software engineering, especially with Python and R&D. We want to see how your skills align with the job description, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience with AI integration and rapid prototyping, and show us your passion for the Defence and Secure Technology sector.
Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on relevant projects, make sure to include them! Whether it's a prototype or an R&D project, we love seeing real examples of your work. This helps us understand your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at FDM Group
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Python skills and any relevant AI technologies. Be ready to discuss your past projects, especially those involving rapid prototyping or R&D. The more you can demonstrate your technical expertise, the better!
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and requirements of the Defence and Secure Technology sector. Knowing how security-first engineering impacts software development will show that you're not just a coder, but someone who understands the bigger picture.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask you to solve problems on the spot or describe how you would approach certain scenarios. Practising these types of questions can help you articulate your thought process clearly and effectively during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves enhancing collaboration and information sharing, be prepared to discuss how you've worked in teams before. Highlight any experiences where you successfully integrated feedback or collaborated with others to achieve a common goal.