Lead Software Engineer

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Lead Software Engineer with strong Python and Django expertise to work for a leading public sector organisation. The role is hybrid, with two days per week onsite, and involves designing, building and maintaining secure, user‑centred digital services in a large‑scale Agile environment.

Key responsibilities

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

Required profile

• 5+ years of software engineering experience, preferably in a regulated or public sector environment.
• Strong hands‑on experience with Python and Django.
• Proven capability in end‑to‑end system design and architecture.
• Extensive experience working in Agile, multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to lead technical delivery within complex environments.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Security Clearance (SC) is essential.

Required skills

• Python
• Django
• Agile methodologies
• Test‑driven development

What we offer

• 12‑month contract (inside IR35).
• Hybrid working (2 days onsite).
• Up to £750 per day.
• Opportunity to work on critical public sector services.