Salary: £100,000 - 100,000 per year Requirements: We are looking for a principal-level software developer with a track record of technically leading complex software deliveries. We require excellent programming skills in C++ or Rust. We want experience with modern end-to-end software engineering workflows, including requirements management, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. We value experience integrating AI-assisted tools into development workflows without compromising quality, security, or compliance. We require experience developing for Linux, ideally with exposure to industrial computing platforms, single-board computers, or real-time environments. We are looking for a leader who enjoys delivery and improves the engineers around them. We need someone comfortable operating in ambiguous environments and making decisions with incomplete information. We expect excellent communication skills, with the ability to contribute effectively in code reviews, client meetings, and one-to-ones. We value strong academic foundations, typically a first-class degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics from a leading university. Experience in defence or national security is a strong plus. Responsibilities: We lead the delivery of complex software projects. We work alongside other leads to set direction for the defence function. We stay hands-on by setting technical direction, designing software, and writing code where needed. We mentor engineers across a range of experience levels. We plan and estimate delivery, manage technical debt, and make pragmatic trade-offs between speed, quality, and long-term maintainability. We work directly with clients to shape requirements, manage expectations, and build trust. We run code and design reviews, set the quality bar, and hold the team to it. We embed strong testing practices in the teams workflow, from unit tests through to integration and acceptance testing. We help shape how the team works and how it grows around us. Technologies: AI Linux Network Rust Security C++ More: We are a highly successful, fast-growing technology consultancy building data, AI, and software solutions for clients across a broad range of industries, tackling demanding problems in challenging environments. This is a hands-on delivery role for an experienced engineer who wants to stay close to the code while leading a team of 6 to 12 engineers. We offer high-impact work on complex problems, a flat structure, and a small, growing team where you will help shape how we work. Our colleagues come from organisations known for engineering excellence, and the role includes international exposure across our global office network. The position is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, with a basic salary of 90,000 to 130,000 plus bonus and excellent benefits including 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, matching pension contributions up to 6%, private health insurance through Bupa, a discretionary bonus, and strong training and career development opportunities. last updated 20 week of 2026