At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of Python services and REST APIs for AI and data projects.
- Company: Join a leading consulting firm working with major financial services clients.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, hybrid working, and opportunities for mentorship.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for contract extension and career growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact by setting engineering standards and mentoring fellow developers.
- Qualifications: Advanced Python skills, experience with CI/CD, and a passion for code quality.
We’re working with a leading consulting firm on a long‑term engagement with a major financial services client. They are looking for a Lead Python Engineer to set the engineering bar across several Python services while remaining highly hands‑on.
The opportunity
- Lead the design and development of Python‑based services and REST APIs (Django or similar) used across multiple AI and data use cases.
- Own and manage the code repository: structure, branching strategy, pull requests, code reviews and refactoring standards.
- Implement and enforce software development best practices – CI/CD, automated testing (unit and integration), static checks and quality gates.
- Drive a focus on code simplicity, performance and maintainability, continuously improving the codebase through regular refactoring.
- Work in a full‑stack environment: Python/Django on the backend, templates or light front‑end integration where needed, running in containers (Docker/Kubernetes) with DevOps support.
- Mentor and upskill other developers (including offshore team members), providing clear feedback and helping to embed consistent ways of working across pods.
What we’re looking for
Must have:
- Advanced Python experience building production systems and APIs (Django or comparable framework).
- Demonstrable experience owning a codebase: repository management, branching/PR workflows, code reviews and refactoring.
- Strong grasp of engineering best practice: CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, monitoring and documentation.
- Experience working in a containerised environment (Docker; Kubernetes strongly preferred).
Should have:
- Exposure to front‑end integration (Django templates or similar) and an understanding of how the full stack hangs together.
- Experience in financial services or consulting environments.
- Previous responsibility for mentoring or leading developers within a team.
Details
- Location: UK‑based, hybrid working with onshore and offshore teams.
- Contract: 3–12 months, with potential to extend.
- Day rate: £700 per day.
Lead Python Engineer – AI & Data employer: RAW Search
Join a leading consulting firm that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work culture where your expertise as a Lead Python Engineer will directly impact major financial services projects. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to mentor fellow developers while working in a hybrid environment that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Enjoy competitive compensation and the chance to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to engineering excellence and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Python Engineer – AI & Data
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in financial services or consulting. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your Python projects, especially any REST APIs or AI-related work. 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 technical knowledge and soft skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with CI/CD, automated testing, and mentoring others. We want to see how you can lead and inspire a team!
✨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 love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Python Engineer – AI & Data
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your advanced Python experience and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you've set the engineering bar in previous roles, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Code Management Skills:Since you'll be owning a codebase, it’s crucial to mention your experience with repository management, branching strategies, and code reviews. We love seeing examples of how you’ve implemented best practices in your past work.
Highlight Your Mentoring Experience:If you've mentored other developers or led teams, make sure to include that! We value collaboration and want to know how you've helped others grow in their roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at RAW Search
✨Know Your Python Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your advanced Python skills, especially around building production systems and APIs using Django or similar frameworks. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've tackled challenges in your codebase.
✨Showcase Your Code Management Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with repository management, branching strategies, and pull request workflows. Have examples ready that demonstrate how you've enforced coding standards and conducted effective code reviews.
✨Emphasise Best Practices
Familiarise yourself with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and monitoring. Be prepared to explain how you've implemented these practices in previous roles and how they contributed to the overall quality of the software.
✨Mentorship Matters
Since mentoring is a key part of this role, think about your experiences leading or upskilling other developers. Share specific instances where your guidance made a difference, especially in fostering consistent working methods across teams.
