Lead Software Engineer

Location: St James's

Job Title:

Lead Software Engineer

Location:

Hybrid – 40% onsite in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff or Northeast Duration: 12 months IR35:
Inside IR35 Overview Our client is seeking experienced Lead Software Engineers to design, build and support secure, scalable digital services within a government environment. The role will focus on delivering resilient software solutions that support export control and regulatory systems, while providing technical leadership across agile delivery teams. Essential Skills & Experience Strong commercial experience with Python and Django Proven ability to design and deliver complex systems end-to-end Experience leading engineering delivery within agile teams Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and collaboration skills Experience working within secure, structured or regulated environments Minimum 5 years' experience (8–10 years preferred) Top 3 Evaluation Criteria Python & Django expertise System design and architecture capability Communication, collaboration and team leadership

Key Responsibilities Lead the design and development of scalable software solutions T ranslate business and user requirements into technical outcomes Develop secure, test-driven, high-quality code Support and improve live services, performance and stability Collaborate with Business Analysts, Developers and UCD specialists Drive engineering best practice, continuous improvement and technical standards Oversee delivery across multiple work streams and system integrations Technical Environment Python Django Backend-focused role with full-stack awareness Agile delivery GDS-aligned digital services

Desirable Experience Government Digital Service (GDS) standards Public sector, government or defence projects