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 systems Skills 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 engineering Top 3 Evaluation Criteria • Python & Django expertise • System design and architecture capability • Collaboration and leadership within Agile teams Desirable • Background in public sector or regulated environments Package details: Contract 12-month contract Hybrid (2 days per week onsite) Up to £750 PD (Inside IR35) SC clearance is essential