Python Developer - Lead
Job Title: Lead Software Engineer (Python)
Location: Hybrid – 40% onsite in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff or Northeast
Duration: 12 months
IR35: Inside IR35
Overview
Our client is seeking experienced Lead Software Engineers to design, build and support secure, scalable digital services within a government environment. The role will focus on delivering resilient software solutions that support export control and regulatory systems, while providing technical leadership across agile delivery teams.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong commercial experience with Python and Django
- Proven ability to design and deliver complex systems end-to-end
- Experience leading engineering delivery within agile teams
- Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and collaboration skills
- Experience working within secure, structured or regulated environments
- Minimum 5+ years' experience (8–10 years preferred)
Top 3 Evaluation Criteria
- Python & Django expertise
- System design and architecture capability
- Communication, collaboration and team leadership
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of scalable software solutions
- Translate business and user requirements into technical outcomes
- Develop secure, test-driven, high-quality code
- Support and improve live services, performance and stability
- Collaborate with Business Analysts, Developers and UCD specialists
- Drive engineering best practice, continuous improvement and technical standards
- Oversee delivery across multiple workstreams and system integrations
Technical Environment
- Python
- Django
- Backend-focused role with full-stack awareness
- Agile delivery
- GDS-aligned digital services
Desirable Experience
- Government Digital Service (GDS) standards
- Public sector, government or defence projects
- Experience within highly regulated or security-focused environments