We're looking for a Lead Software Engineer (Python & Django) for a central government department based in London, Manchester, Birmingham or Cardiff (hybrid), on an initial 12 months contract, paying up to £720 per day (Inside IR35).
This is a hybrid role with around 40% office attendance, roughly two days per week.
The successful Lead Software Engineer (Python & Django) will design, build and maintain resilient backend services on a high-profile government digital programme, working within a secure, GDS-aligned environment.
You'll lead and mentor engineers across agile squads while staying hands-on, driving engineering standards and technical design decisions.
You'll translate user needs into robust, test-driven solutions and support live services for performance, stability and resilience.
You will need proven experience working with the following:
- Extensive commercial Python development
- Strong hands-on Django
- System design and software architecture
- End-to-end delivery of secure, scalable services
- Agile multidisciplinary teamwork and strong stakeholder communication
- Leading or mentoring engineering teams, with solid testing, debugging and QA practices
The following would be beneficial:
- Government Digital Service (GDS) experience
- Public sector, government or defence sector experience
- Working in regulated or secure environments
- Understanding of accessibility and government service standards
You'll need to hold or be eligible to obtain SC clearance for this role.