Lead Software Developer - Contract

Location: Remote (UK)
Security Clearance: SC Cleared (Required)
Contract: 6 months
Day Rate: £529 (Inside IR35)

The Opportunity

We're looking for an experienced Lead Software Developer (SFIA Level 5) to join a high-impact technology team delivering critical services within a government environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead development across modern cloud-based platforms, working with cutting-edge tools and contributing to user-focused digital services.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate business requirements into scalable, robust system designs
• Lead development of high-quality, reusable, and open-by-default code
• Champion user-centric design by identifying needs and building services based on evidence
• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to deliver impactful digital services
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues using your expertise
• Promote secure development practices, including vulnerability scanning and OWASP standards
• Contribute to continuous improvement of engineering standards and practices

Technology Stack

• Backend: Node.js
• API Development: REST, OpenAPI
• Web Frameworks: HAPI
• Databases: PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Redis
• Testing: Jest, Lab
• Source Control: Git
• Cloud Platforms: AWS/Azure
• Containers: Docker, Kubernetes, ECS
• CI/CD: Azure DevOps, Jenkins, GitHub Actions
• Work Management: Jira, Azure DevOps

Skills & Experience

• Strong experience leading software development at SFIA Level 5 (or equivalent)
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders
• Confident engaging with senior stakeholders and influencing decision-making
• Strong understanding of:
  • Clean coding principles and best practices
  • Managing and reducing technical debt (refactoring, improving test coverage)
  • Software architecture (layered design, separation of concerns, microservices)
• Proven experience breaking down work, defining acceptance criteria, and managing delivery
• Familiarity with common Defra technologies (Node.js, PostgreSQL, Redis)
• Awareness of secure engineering practices and standards

Why Apply?

• Fully remote contract with competitive day rate
• Work on meaningful, user-focused government services
• Collaborate with highly skilled engineering teams
• Opportunity to shape architecture and development practices

Note: Active SC Clearance is mandatory for this role.