Chief Software Architect

Chief Software Architect

Full-Time 97500 £ / year No working from home possible
Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead innovative software solutions in defence technology and mentor a team of engineers.
  • Company: Pioneering company at the forefront of advanced cryptographic and key management solutions.
  • Benefits: Flexible working hours and the chance to make a real impact in global security.
  • Other info: Join a collaborative culture focused on trust, innovation, and making a difference.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of defence technology and drive technical excellence in critical programmes.
  • Qualifications: Expertise in C/C++, Rust, and embedded software development required.

Are you ready to redefine defence technology and lead innovative software solutions that truly make a difference? This is your chance to join a company at the forefront of pioneering advanced cryptographic and key management solutions. As a Chief Software Architect, you will lead and shape the software engineering strategy for advanced cyber and defence systems, overseeing a team of 20–30 engineers across multiple high-security projects. The position focuses on defining software architectures, driving best-practice development processes, and ensuring collaboration across software, hardware, systems, and firmware teams to deliver secure, scalable, and high-quality solutions. The role requires deep expertise in embedded and application software development using technologies such as C/C++, Rust, Linux, and RTOS environments, alongside experience with DevSecOps, automated testing, and secure development standards. In addition to technical leadership, the architect will mentor engineers, support bids and proposals, influence organisational software standards, and contribute to the delivery of mission-critical defence technologies requiring DV security clearance.

What You Will Do:

  • Provide technical leadership across multiple projects, ensuring optimal approaches, architecture, and tool chains are selected.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to develop software requirements, architectures, and designs that meet system and security needs.
  • Work closely with software leads and project managers to create development plans that deliver value early to customers.
  • Mentor and coach software engineers, sharing knowledge and driving process improvements for technical excellence.
  • Specify, design, and review software using UML and SysML modelling tools, ensuring high-quality, modular, and compliant solutions.
  • Champion best practices in software development, including continuous integration, automated testing, and secure coding standards.

What You Will Bring:

  • Advanced knowledge and experience in C/C++, Rust, or embedded product development, including RTOSes.
  • Expertise in software engineering practices, methodologies, and technology trends.
  • Proven track record of delivering complex software solutions to schedule while exceeding customer expectations.
  • Experience with tools such as version control systems, change control, bug tracking, and automated testing frameworks.
  • Familiarity with defence or high-assurance development standards, including coding standards like MISRA.

This company is committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower decision-making at both tactical and strategic levels. As a Chief Software Architect, you will be instrumental in driving technical excellence and ensuring the success of critical programmes that protect lives and enhance global security. Your contributions will align with the company's values of trust, collaboration, and innovation, making a real impact in the defence industry.

Location: The role is an onsite role in Maidenhead, offering good flexibility with working hours.

Interested? If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and lead transformative software projects, apply now to become the Chief Software Architect. Don’t miss the opportunity to make a difference in the future of defence technology.

Chief Software Architect employer: Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd

Join a pioneering company in Maidenhead that is redefining defence technology through innovative software solutions. As a Chief Software Architect, you will thrive in a collaborative work culture that values trust and innovation, while enjoying flexible working hours and ample opportunities for professional growth. With a focus on mentoring and technical excellence, this role offers the chance to make a significant impact in the defence industry, contributing to mission-critical projects that enhance global security.

Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd

Contact Details:

Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Chief Software Architect

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence tech space and let them know you're on the hunt for a Chief Software Architect role. Attend industry events or meetups to make new contacts and get your name out there.

Tip Number 2

Show off your expertise! Create a portfolio showcasing your past projects, especially those involving C/C++, Rust, and embedded systems. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've driven best practices in software development and mentored teams in previous roles.

Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our innovative team.

We think you need these skills to ace Chief Software Architect

C/C++
Rust
Embedded Software Development
RTOS
DevSecOps
Automated Testing
Secure Development Standards

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chief Software Architect role. Highlight your experience with C/C++, Rust, and any relevant defence technology projects. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!

Showcase Leadership Experience:Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to showcase your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've mentored engineers or driven technical excellence in past projects. We love seeing that collaborative spirit!

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex topics like software architecture.

Apply Through Our Website:Finally, make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a difference in defence technology!

How to prepare for a job interview at Jonathan Lee Recruitment Ltd

Know Your Tech Inside Out

As a Chief Software Architect, you need to demonstrate your deep expertise in C/C++, Rust, and embedded systems. Brush up on the latest trends and best practices in software engineering, especially around DevSecOps and secure coding standards. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied these technologies.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

This role involves mentoring and leading a team of engineers, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Talk about your approach to fostering collaboration and driving process improvements, as well as any experience you have with stakeholder engagement.

Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making processes. Think of scenarios where you've had to define software architectures or make critical decisions under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.

Align with Company Values

The company values trust, collaboration, and innovation, so make sure to convey how your personal values align with theirs. Share experiences that highlight your commitment to these principles, especially in high-stakes environments like defence technology.