At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering teams and tackle complex defence projects with cutting-edge technology.
- Company: High-growth defence tech start-up with a focus on innovation and problem-solving.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, private healthcare, pension, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Join top engineers in solving unique challenges and making a real impact in defence.
- Qualifications: Strong software engineering background and leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 € per year.
A high-growth technology consultancy is seeking Technical Leads to support delivery across complex, high-impact defence programmes. They're building teams across application (C#, Java, Python), low-level/embedded (C/C++, Rust), Data, AI/ML, and DevOps skillsets.
They are deliberately setting a very high bar, hiring engineers from top universities who are among the strongest technically in their field. The work is very problem-solving focused, small teams tackling complex systems, often working on completely new challenges every few months.
You'll genuinely be working alongside some of the best engineers/teams in the country, solving problems no one else has before.
They’re hiring for, and value, people who:
- Enjoy working on challenging systems
- Are friendly
- Truly understand problem-solving, from first principles
- Enjoy variety
- Are adaptable and articulate
The Technical Lead Role
As the Technical Lead, you will combine hands-on engineering with leadership responsibilities, guiding multi-disciplinary teams in demanding and often ambiguous environments.
Technical Lead Responsibilities include:
- Leading engineering teams and setting technical direction
- Defining architecture, standards, and engineering trade-offs
- Mentoring engineers across varying levels of experience
- Conducting code and design reviews
- Engaging directly with clients to shape requirements and manage expectations
- Planning delivery, estimation, and prioritisation
- Managing technical debt while balancing delivery pressures
Technical Lead Requirements:
- Strong software engineering background with leadership experience
- Experience in Application, or Low-Level/Embedded, or AI/ML, or DevOps, or Data
- Tech: e.g. C#, Python, C++, Rust, Typescript, C, Java, AI/ML tools, LLMs/RAG, SQL, multi-cloud etc...
- Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Experience working in client-facing or consulting environments, or at least the attributes to thrive in these environments
- Familiarity with modern engineering practices (CI/CD, IaC, containers, testing)
- Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, ambiguous environments
Additional Criteria:
- STEM Degree (2:1 or 1st) from a leading university
- Eligibility for UK SC-level security clearance
- Interest, or experience, in defence, national security, or similar sectors is advantageous (but not required)
Technical Lead Benefits:
- ~ Target based Bonus (~10%)
- ~ Private healthcare
- ~ Pension
- ~25 days holiday + bank holidays
Technical Lead | Defence Start-up in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Switch Tech Talent
Join a pioneering Defence Tech Start-up in Newcastle, where you'll be part of a dynamic and innovative work culture that thrives on solving complex challenges. With competitive salaries, a target-based bonus, and comprehensive benefits including private healthcare and generous holiday allowances, this company is dedicated to fostering employee growth through mentorship and collaboration with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Embrace the opportunity to lead multi-disciplinary teams while working on cutting-edge projects that make a real impact in national security.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Lead | Defence Start-up in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the defence tech scene! Attend meetups, conferences, or even online webinars. The more you engage with industry folks, the better your chances of landing that Technical Lead role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of how you've tackled complex problems in your previous roles. This is your time to shine and show them you’re the right fit for their teams.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Each squad or tribe might be looking for something slightly different. Do your homework on the specific skills they value and adjust your conversations accordingly. This shows you’re not just another candidate but someone who genuinely understands their needs.
✨Apply Through Our Website
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 that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Lead | Defence Start-up in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Technical Lead role. Highlight your experience in leading engineering teams and any relevant tech skills like C#, Python, or DevOps. We want to see how you fit into our high-growth environment!
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, emphasise your problem-solving abilities. Share examples of how you've tackled complex systems or challenges in the past. We love candidates who can think on their feet and adapt to new situations!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your cover letter, keep it clear and concise. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex technical concepts. Make it easy for us to see why you're a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Switch Tech Talent
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like C#, Python, or Rust. Brush up on your coding skills and be ready to discuss your past projects in detail, especially those that involved complex problem-solving.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Technical Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've guided teams, mentored engineers, and made architectural decisions. Highlight your experience in managing technical debt while balancing delivery pressures.
✨Communicate Clearly with Non-Techies
You’ll often need to explain complex concepts to clients who may not have a technical background. Practice simplifying your explanations and think of ways to relate technical details to real-world applications. This will show your adaptability and communication skills.
✨Embrace the Ambiguity
The role involves working in fast-paced and often ambiguous environments. Be prepared to discuss how you handle uncertainty and adapt to new challenges. Share examples of how you've thrived in similar situations, showcasing your problem-solving mindset.
