Lead Software Engineer

Lead Principal Engineer (Management) - Central London - 3 days a week onsite

Early-Stage Startup | Safety-Critical Systems

Want to become a CTO? Here's your chance in a business creating safety in the rise of AI-powered autonomous systems.

The Opportunity

I'm working with a mission-led startup in central London that's developing groundbreaking software to make AI and autonomous systems safe, predictable, and trusted - starting in the aerospace and defence domains.

They've already built a strong technical foundation, won key partnerships, and are now hiring a Team Manager to take things to the next level - someone who can guide systems architecture, lead high-stakes delivery, and build an elite engineering culture from the ground up; very quickly becoming the CTO.

It's 100% a step up for a lead principal, but that's the point! We want someone that isnt too far removed from the tech, but has had a go and management and loved it.

What You'll Be Doing

You'll report directly to the Founder and take full responsibility for shaping and scaling the engineering function. You'll be responsible for everything from technical direction and team structure to delivery quality and certification readiness.

Expect to:

Take ownership of a team of 15

Not be too removed from the tech, and dive into code reviews when needed

Work in a very fast paced environment, with short, rapid delivery cycles

What You'll Need

Proven experience in management. Managed a team of c.5 people? Perfect!

Understand Safety Cricial Software (IEC, ISO, MILSTAN, DO178 etc)

Your technical background is Frimware/Embedded Focussed

Show the aptitude for start ups (All-in mentality, balancing multiple things, working at speed!)

Why Join?

Up to £75,000 salary (Potential flex)

Build the engineering culture and systems from the ground up

Work at the forefront of autonomy, AI assurance, and safety engineering

Clear mission and values: trust, safety, and technical excellence

Tools and environment designed for impact, not bureaucracy

Benefits include:

• 5% matched pension
• Bonus schemes
• Cycle to Work & EV schemes
• Generous holiday allowance
• Equity!