Senior Software Developer (North Kent/Chelmsford) Agile Worker

Senior Software Developer (North Kent/Chelmsford) Agile Worker

Chelmsford Full-Time 41856 - 41856 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Kent Police

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and develop innovative software solutions that make a real difference.
  • Company: Join a dynamic team at Kent and Essex Police, committed to public service.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and professional growth opportunities.
  • Other info: Work from home flexibility and a supportive, inclusive workplace culture.
  • Why this job: Be part of exciting projects that support crime prevention and community safety.
  • Qualifications: 3+ years in software development with Java or similar languages required.

The predicted salary is between 41856 - 41856 £ per year.

Location of Role: North Kent / Chelmsford

Advert Closing Date: 12/06/2026

Starting Salary: £41,856.00 (pro-rata for part-time vacancies)

Part/Full Time: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Working Pattern: Mon-Fri

Weekend/Evening Working: No

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our Application Development Team in IT Services as a Senior Software Developer. Responsible for the design, development, and 3rd line support of bespoke and innovative solutions, you will be working on a variety of interesting projects covering the full development life cycle. Previous internal development examples are a Bail application, Room & Desk Booking system, and Mental Health (Section 136) Management systems and an Evidence Based Investigative Tool, as well as administration systems to support back office functions.

The unique function of this team means the role is varied and exciting and brings a huge sense of purpose and job satisfaction knowing our work supports both Officers and Staff to deliver a first class service to the public in tackling and preventing crime.

The successful candidate will have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with colleagues to meet team goals. You will be required to manage and prioritise your own workload using project management disciplines and must be self-motivated, driven and possess excellent team working skills. In return, you will be working with a highly skilled supportive network of colleagues and managers who are receptive to your ideas and passionate about delivering high quality applications for both Forces.

In your application, please evidence the following requirements:

  • Around 3 years or more programming experience in Java (J2EE, J2ME) (or equivalent object-oriented language) and JavaScript or Microsoft Power Platform including Power Apps and Power Automate.
  • Around 3 or more years’ experience with systems implementation, covering the full application lifecycle.
  • A sound understanding and appreciation of the principles and practice of good system design.
  • Be able to demonstrate excellent time management skills and working to deadlines.

Also please document any further expertise in the following areas:

  • An understanding and experience of using the Scrum framework.
  • Web Services experience.

A technical test may be required to be taken as part of the selection procedure.

We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace, where difference is embraced, supported and talent is progressed and enhanced. We encourage applications from all and will support and encourage those from protected characteristics.

Kent Home Based Agile Worker:

The role will offer flexibility in terms of place of work, including the potential to work from home for those who would like to. In the event that home working is agreed for the successful candidate, there will be a requirement to regularly attend a designated ‘Team Zone’ as agreed with the line manager. Currently the designated Team Zone for this role is located at Northfleet. Please note that any excess travel costs from the Team Zone to any future Team Zone will not be paid and applicants are advised to take potential travel mileage increases into consideration when deciding to apply.

Essex Home Based Agile Worker:

Works predominately (80% or more) at home only working in the office when required to do so.

For further information regarding this role please contact Daniel O’Brien, Software Development Team Leader via email daniel.obrien@kent.police.uk.

Your application for this role will be shortlisted on the content you provide within the “reason for application” question, within the application form itself. CV’s, covering letters or attachments are not included in the shortlist. Within your “reason for application” answer, please refer to any experience, skills, and abilities you feel you have that will make you suitable for this role, based on the role criteria stated in the job advert or job description. Please provide as much detail as possible as insufficient content may mean you do not meet the shortlisting criteria, however please note this question is limited to 9000 characters and this system will count spaces and blank lines as characters.

All of our posts require a level of vetting and security clearance. During the recruitment process you will be sent vetting information forms to complete.

Kent Police and Essex Police welcomes applications regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, sex, or employment status. Please let us know if you require extra support at any stage of the application process, or for further information regarding this position, please email us at recruitment.business.services@ecis.police.uk stating ‘Application Support and Adjustments’ in the title of your email. Alternatively, you can call us on 01245 452833. Where appropriate we will make adjustments to the selection process, working arrangements and/or the working environment provided it is reasonable in all the circumstances to do so.

If you’re not from the UK, you must be a resident in the UK and have lived here continuously for the last three years. You must also be free from restrictions with indefinite leave to remain. If you’re from the UK you must have lived here continuously for the last three years. This doesn’t apply to those serving abroad in the British Armed Forces.

Essex Police is a Disability Confident Leader, we:

  • Have subjected our Disability Confident self-assessment to external challenge and validation.
  • Are taking an active leadership role in encouraging and helping other employers on their journey to becoming Disability Confident.

Diversity, Equality and Inclusion are central to the values of our organisation. At Essex Police we value and embrace the unique experiences, identities and abilities that each of us bring to our roles. We strive to empower everyone to bring their authentic self openly and safely to work.

Through the dedicated commitment of our support networks, DE&I team and wider HR departments, we are on a journey to embed our DE&I commitments, ensuring Essex Police is an employer of choice; where everyone feels included.

Essex Police and Kent Police are an equal opportunities employer. Communications may be recorded for monitoring purposes.

Senior Software Developer (North Kent/Chelmsford) Agile Worker employer: Kent Police

Essex Police and Kent Police offer an exceptional work environment for Senior Software Developers, combining a commitment to diversity and inclusion with the flexibility of home-based agile working. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that values innovation and collaboration, alongside opportunities for professional growth through engaging projects that directly contribute to public safety. With a focus on employee well-being and a strong sense of purpose, this role provides a meaningful career path in a dynamic and rewarding setting.

Kent Police

Contact Details:

Kent Police Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Software Developer (North Kent/Chelmsford) Agile Worker

Tip Number 1

Get to know the company! Research Kent and Essex Police, their values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.

Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local tech meetups. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!

Tip Number 3

Prepare for the technical test! Brush up on your Java and JavaScript skills, and practice coding challenges. Being well-prepared will boost your confidence and help you shine during the selection process.

Tip Number 4

When applying, focus on your 'reason for application'. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. The more specific you are, the better your chances of getting shortlisted!

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Software Developer (North Kent/Chelmsford) Agile Worker

Java (J2EE, J2ME)
JavaScript
Microsoft Power Platform
Power Apps
Power Automate
Systems Implementation
Application Lifecycle Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Skills:When filling out the 'reason for application' section, make sure to highlight your programming experience in Java and any other relevant skills. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back!

Be Specific:Use concrete examples from your past work to demonstrate your experience with systems implementation and good system design principles. The more detail you provide, the better we can understand your fit for the team.

Mind the Character Limit:Remember, you've got a 9000 character limit for your application response. Keep an eye on that count as you write, and consider using an online character counter to avoid any surprises!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!

How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Police

Know Your Tech Stack

Make sure you’re well-versed in Java (J2EE, J2ME) and JavaScript, as well as the Microsoft Power Platform. Brush up on your programming skills and be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these technologies.

Showcase Your Project Management Skills

Since the role requires managing your own workload, prepare examples of how you've successfully prioritised tasks in past projects. Highlight any experience with Agile methodologies, especially Scrum, to demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively.

Prepare for Technical Tests

Be ready for a technical test as part of the selection process. Practice coding challenges related to the full application lifecycle and be prepared to explain your thought process during the test.

Tailor Your Application Response

When filling out the application, make sure to detail your relevant experience and skills in the 'reason for application' section. Use specific examples that align with the job criteria to stand out from other candidates.