At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead full-stack engineering, modernise architecture, and break down monolithic systems.
- Company: Join Hedgehog Lab, a dynamic product consultancy focused on impactful digital solutions.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive pay, and a collaborative team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming complex systems with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Deep JavaScript expertise and strong full-stack experience required.
- Other info: Work in a flat team structure with excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Type: Full-time, Contract (outside IR35)
Location: UK-based (flexible home, office, or hybrid working)
Office locations: Newcastle and Leeds
Hub locations: Edinburgh, Manchester, London
Start date: Monday 2nd Feb (must be immediately available)
We’re growing our Engineering team to strengthen our ability to deliver world-class digital products for our clients. As a Principal Full Stack JavaScript Engineer, you’ll join a small, highly technical group tackling a complex transformation: breaking down a monolithic JavaScript platform into clearer, modern components. This is an individual contributor role for someone who thrives on problem-solving, can ramp up quickly, and can collaborate confidently with other very strong engineers. You’ll be hands-on from day one, helping modernise architecture, improve maintainability, and set the foundations for future technology decisions, all while staying pragmatic and delivery-focused.
What You’ll Do
- Lead (hands-on) full-stack engineering across a JavaScript platform, with a strong focus on architecture and problem-solving.
- Break down an existing monolithic system into well-structured components and services.
- Work closely with senior client engineers, ask the right questions, and influence technical direction through evidence and collaboration.
- Support a move from Vercel-hosted deployment towards a Google Cloud future, improving deployment and operational readiness.
- Contribute to authentication modernisation by integrating an identity platform rather than maintaining bespoke authentication.
- Deliver value quickly by quickly understanding the domain, codebase, and priorities.
Who Is Hedgehog Lab
We’re an outcome-driven product consultancy where product, design, and research sit side by side. You'll join a team that values curiosity, collaboration and impact, building products that truly matter.
What We’re Looking For
- Deep expertise in JavaScript (TypeScript a plus).
- Strong full-stack experience, including Node.js and API architecture.
- A pragmatic mindset: you care about quality, but you also deliver outcomes and keep momentum.
- Confident communicator who can hold their own in technical discussions with senior engineers.
- Comfortable working in small, flat teams with little hierarchy and lots of collaboration.
Nice to have
- Experience with Google Cloud (especially identity or auth-related services).
- Experience with Vercel or modern web deployment platforms.
- Interest or experience in open source communities or open source strategy.
- Exposure to geospatial/GIS/mapping products or highly interactive map UIs.
Ready to apply? Submit your application below. Please note that we’re unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
Principal Full Stack JavaScript Engineer - Contract in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: hedgehog lab
Contact Detail:
hedgehog lab Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Full Stack JavaScript Engineer - Contract in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend meetups, and engage in online communities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving JavaScript and full-stack development. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do and sets you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your problem-solving skills. Practice coding challenges and be ready to discuss your thought process. Remember, they want to see how you tackle complex issues, so think aloud!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Hedgehog Lab.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Full Stack JavaScript Engineer - Contract in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Principal Full Stack JavaScript Engineer. Highlight your experience with JavaScript, Node.js, and any relevant projects that showcase your problem-solving skills and architectural expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Mention specific experiences that relate to breaking down monolithic systems and your approach to modernising architecture.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a confident communicator, it's important to demonstrate this in your application. Share examples of how you've influenced technical direction or collaborated with senior engineers in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own channels!
How to prepare for a job interview at hedgehog lab
✨Know Your JavaScript Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your JavaScript skills, especially if you have experience with TypeScript. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've tackled complex problems using JavaScript. This role is all about breaking down monolithic systems, so be prepared to explain your approach to architecture and component design.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
During the interview, highlight specific examples where you've solved challenging technical issues. They’ll want to see how you think on your feet, so practice articulating your thought process clearly. Think of scenarios where you had to make quick decisions or pivot your approach to meet project goals.
✨Communicate Confidently
This role requires collaboration with senior engineers, so practice discussing technical topics confidently. Prepare to ask insightful questions that demonstrate your understanding of the technology stack and the challenges they face. Good communication can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Google Cloud
Since the company is moving towards a Google Cloud future, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with its services, especially those related to identity and authentication. If you have any experience with Vercel or modern web deployment platforms, be sure to mention it, as it could give you an edge in the conversation.