Security Clearance: SC
Function: Technology

Role Overview

We are seeking a Lead Software Developer (SFIA Level 5) to provide technical leadership in the design, development, and delivery of scalable, secure, and user-focused digital services. You will translate business requirements into robust technical solutions while fostering engineering best practices and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the translation of business and user requirements into effective system and service designs
• Champion user-centred design, ensuring services are built based on evidence and real user needs
• Develop high-quality, reusable, and maintainable code that is open by default
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to deliver reliable and scalable software solutions
• Work with core stack technologies including Node.js, PostgreSQL, and Redis
• Investigate, diagnose, and resolve complex technical issues across systems
• Promote and implement secure development practices, including vulnerability management and OWASP standards
• Mentor and support developers, encouraging best practices and continuous improvement
• Contribute to defining and improving engineering standards, frameworks, and processes

Technical Environment

You will work with a modern technology stack including:

• Languages & Frameworks: Node.js, HAPI
• API Development: RESTful services, OpenAPI specifications
• Databases: PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Redis
• Testing: Jest, Lab
• Source Control: Git
• Cloud Platforms: Azure, AWS
• Containerisation & Orchestration: Docker, Kubernetes, ECS
• CI/CD & Release Management: Azure DevOps, Jenkins, GitHub Actions
• Work Management Tools: Jira, Azure DevOps

Skills & ExperienceEssential Skills

• Strong ability to communicate effectively with senior stakeholders, both technical and non-technical
• Proven experience explaining complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Experience managing work, including:
  • Breaking down and refining tasks
  • Defining and agreeing acceptance criteria
• Solid understanding of Clean Code principles and approaches to managing technical debt, including refactoring and improving test coverage
• Strong grounding in software architecture, including layered design, separation of concerns, and microservices

Technical Expertise

• Extensive experience in Back End development, particularly with Node.js ecosystems
• Strong experience designing and implementing secure, scalable APIs
• Knowledge of database design and optimisation across relational and NoSQL systems
• Familiarity with DevOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, and cloud-native development

Desirable

• Experience working within government or regulated environments (eg Defra ecosystem)
• Familiarity with accessibility and service standards
• Experience leading or mentoring engineering teams

Behavioural Competencies

• User-focused mindset with a passion for delivering high-quality digital services
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Collaborative approach, with the ability to influence and guide teams
• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement

SFIA Alignment (Level 5)

At SFIA Level 5, you will:

• Provide technical leadership and guidance
• Ensure solutions align with organisational strategy
• Take responsibility for significant aspects of delivery
• Influence team practices and technical direction