Senior/ Lead Python Developer
Hybrid, 2 days per week in Leeds
We're recruting for a highly skilled Senior Software Engineer with a strong foundation in Python and a passion for leading modern software projects to join our client. This role combines hands-on technical development with leadership responsibilities, guiding teams, shaping technical direction, and delivering robust, scalable solutions across complex environments.
What You'll Do
* Take ownership of the design, build, and delivery of sophisticated back-end systems using Python and frameworks such as FastAPI, Django, or Flask.
* Apply solid software engineering principles, from clean code and error handling to data modelling and object-oriented design.
* Collaborate closely with front-end teams working with React, Vue.js, or vanilla JS, ensuring smooth integration between client and server layers.
* Design and optimise relational database schemas, write efficient SQL, and maintain data integrity across systems.
* Build and manage cloud-native applications using AWS services, employing Terraform for provisioning and automation.
* Contribute to DevOps practices, including Docker containerisation and serverless deployments.
* Provide technical leadership: support code reviews, maintain development standards, and mentor junior engineers.
* Implement automated testing strategies, including unit and API test coverage, to maintain high-quality releases.
What You'll Bring
* 5+ years of experience delivering production-grade software in Python.
* A strong understanding of modern web frameworks, database design, and API development.
* Practical experience with cloud infrastructure (AWS preferred) and infrastructure as code tools such as Terraform.
* Hands-on experience with containerisation and microservices.
* Familiarity with continuous integration and delivery pipelines and Agile delivery environments.
* Ability to analyse complex technical problems, identify root causes, and propose innovative solutions.
* Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset, with a track record of guiding others and influencing technical decisions.
Desirable Extras
* Experience working with ORM frameworks (e.g., SQLAlchemy) and templating engines.
* Deep knowledge of AWS best practices and scalable system design.
* Awareness of software architecture patterns and principles for maintainable systems.
* Background in Agile coaching or process improvement initiatives.
You'll be part of a forward-thinking engineering team that values innovation, autonomy, and technical excellence. This is an opportunity to work on impactful projects, shape architectural decisions, and help define the future of scalable, cloud-first applications.