Lead Software Engineer

Lead Software Engineer 
London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff or Northeast (Darlington)

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Lead Software Engineer for a leading public sector organisation to support the design, development, and continuous improvement of secure, user-centred digital services.

Working within a large-scale Agile environment, you will be responsible for designing, building, and maintaining scalable software solutions using Python and Django, while providing technical leadership across multidisciplinary teams.
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior engineer to take ownership of complex systems, contribute to end-to-end architecture and delivery, and play a key role in ensuring the performance, resilience, and ongoing evolution of critical services within a highly regulated environment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design and delivery of scalable, secure software solutions
Translate user requirements into high-quality technical implementations
Develop and maintain test-driven, production-ready code
Support live services, ensuring performance, resilience, and stability
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including BAs, UCD specialists, and engineers
Oversee development across multiple Agile workstreams
Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes, and engineering practices
Ensure effective integration across complex, interconnected systemsSkills and Experience
Essential

Strong hands-on experience with Python and Django
Proven capability in end-to-end system design and architecture
Strong experience working in Agile, multidisciplinary teams
Ability to lead technical delivery within complex environments
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
5+ years’ experience in software engineeringTop 3 Evaluation Criteria

Python & Django expertise
System design and architecture capability
Collaboration and leadership within Agile teamsDesirable

Background in public sector or regulated environmentsPackage details:
Contract 12-month contract
Hybrid (2 days per week onsite)
Up to £750 PD (Inside IR35)

SC clearance is essential
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed