Lead Software Engineer
Location: Bristol (Aztec West)
Day Rate: 500-650 per day
Work Model: Hybrid (3 days in the office per week)
About the Role:
RC Fornax is a veteran-owned engineering consultancy delivering high-value solutions for complex, safety-critical systems in industries where reliability and precision are paramount. We are seeking a visionary and highly skilled Lead Software Engineer to lead the development of an AI-powered platform that will revolutionise engineering outsourcing, recruitment and defence procurement. This role combines cutting-edge artificial intelligence as a service (AIaaS) with deep software engineering expertise to create tools that enhance transparency, efficiency, and strategic decision-making in complex procurement environments.
Key Responsibilities:
* Design, develop, and deploy AI-enabled software solutions tailored to defence procurement challenges.
* Build scalable, secure, and modular systems that integrate with existing procurement platforms and data sources.
* Collaborate with stakeholders across defence, government, and industry to understand requirements and validate solutions.
* Ensure compliance with defence standards, cybersecurity protocols, and ethical AI principles.
* Lead technical architecture decisions and mentor junior developers as the team grows.
Required Skills & Experience:
* Proven experience in software development (Python, Java, C++, or similar).
* Be proficient in using AI-coding assistants (like Cloude Code) to substantially optimise delivery cycles.
* Experience with data engineering, APIs, and developing full-stack solutions in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
* Familiarity with procurement systems, defence contracting, or government tech is a strong plus.
* Ability to work independently and drive innovation in ambiguous environments.
* Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Desirable Qualifications:
* Degree in Computer Science, AI, Engineering, or related field.
* Experience with secure software development and defence-grade compliance.
* Knowledge of LLMs, generative AI, or autonomous decision systems.
* Understanding of procurement regulations (e.g., MOD, NATO, or equivalent).
* Application of machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics to automate and optimise procurement workflows.
What We Offer:
* Opportunity to shape the future of defence procurement through AI.
* Direct impact on national security and strategic innovation.
* Flexible working arrangements and a culture of autonomy and excellence.
Additional Information
* Eligibility for UK security clearance is essential.