The Opportunity We’re looking for a Head of Software Engineering to lead the software behind advanced electro-optical products that protect people and critical assets around the world. Reporting directly to the CTO, you’ll lead a growing team of over 10 software engineers, with the team continuing to expand as OpenWorks grows. You’ll shape its capability, standards and delivery from early concepts through to deployment and in-service improvement. This is an opportunity for an experienced software leader who enjoys technical complexity, develops talented people and brings clarity to competing priorities. You’ll have the scope to build the team, strengthen how we work and make a visible impact on our products. Who We Are OpenWorks is a rapidly growing business operating globally with a passion for exceptional engineering and building on a legacy of defence innovation in the North East of England. Our products provide ultra-high performance, real-time detection, tracking, identification and targeting of dynamic aerial threats. They have been deployed internationally to protect high profile military and civilian assets, and contribute towards the defeat of nuisance, misguided and maliciously deployed drones during operations. We are very proud to have supported a wide range of law enforcement and military operators, protecting many of the most high profile sites and individuals around the world. The amazing things we do are only possible because of a dedicated and passionate team. Security Vetting Information OpenWorks Engineering operates within the defence sector. As part of our recruitment and onboarding processes, we collect information that may be required to support future security vetting and clearance requirements, should these become necessary during employment. Why You’ll Love Working With Us Join a high-energy, collaborative team where great ideas thrive, challenges are embraced, and people genuinely love what they do. Here’s what our benefits have to offer: Rewarding Success - Competitive salary, starting from £90,000, plus a discretionary annual bonus of up to 25% of salary alongside a structured pay progression framework. Enhanced Pension – Up to 8% employer‑matched contributions to help you plan for the future. More Time to Recharge – 25 days’ holiday plus public holidays, long‑service rewards, and the option to buy up to 5 extra days. Breakfast we are unable to offer visa sponsorship. Occasional travel may be required. More about us: Vision Help protect the territory and airspace of NATO countries and their allies. Mission Be a world‑leading provider of autonomous technology for Surveillance applications and Defence Values Be a Good Egg: Earn respect, have mutual trust and be honest Do cool stuff: We develop cool tech with an awesome team, and we get stuff done Be empowered: We are autonomous, reliable and take personal responsibility We are one team: Look out for each other and the team Things go wrong: Fail fast, learn and move on Have fun: We’re doing amazing things with passionate people We Get It Done: Focus on what matters and work with energy to bring ideas to life #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Software Engineering in Northumberland employer: OpenWorks Engineering Ltd
OpenWorks is an exceptional employer that offers Electronics Engineers the chance to work on cutting-edge technology in a fast-paced, high-impact environment. With a competitive salary, generous benefits including enhanced pension contributions and private healthcare, and a strong focus on employee growth through mentoring and a dedicated learning budget, you will thrive in a culture that values innovation and collaboration. Join us to make a meaningful impact by designing systems that protect critical operations globally while enjoying the autonomy and satisfaction of seeing your work come to life.
