Job Description

Our client, a mission-led consultancy, is looking for an experienced Principal Software Engineer (Java) to join their growing team. They deliver secure, modern software solutions to the UK Government and Defence sectors, enabling clients to build scalable systems and progressive web applications that drive real impact.

This is a senior-level opportunity for a hands‑on engineer who enjoys leading by example, thrives in agile environments, and is passionate about shaping engineering best practice while still contributing to the codebase.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and testingof secure, scalable systems using Java with modern front-end frameworks (e.g., React)
• Architect and maintainAPIs, data pipelines, and cloud-native solutions(AWS, Azure, private cloud)
• Drive adoption ofDevOps practices CI/CD, containers, infrastructure-as-code
• Guide and mentor engineers, promotingbest practice, clean coding, and agile delivery
• Collaborate with stakeholders and clients toshape technical directionand ensure robust, user-focused solutions
• Contribute across thefull software development lifecycle, from discovery to production support

Essential Skills & Experience

• Deep expertise in Java, with strong full-stack engineering skills
• Proven experienceleading teams or projectsat a senior/principal level
• Strong knowledge ofsystem architecture, cloud solutions, and API design
• Familiarity withDevOps tools and automation(CI/CD, containers, IaC)
• Track record of deliveringsecure, production-grade systemsin agile teams
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing, and communication skills

Desirable

• Background insecure or classified environments
• Knowledge ofITSMor systems within thegovernment/defence sector
• Experience balancingtechnical leadership with hands‑on development

Benefits

• Flexible working 37.5 hrs/week with remote and hybrid options
• Learning & development budgetfor training, certifications, and conferences
• Private healthcare& matchedpension scheme
• Monthly socialsandquarterly company meetups
• Clearcareer progressioninto leadership roles in a high-impact sector

Diversity & Inclusion

Our client is an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident organisation, committed to fostering a workplace where diverse perspectives are celebrated and everyone can thrive.

How to Apply

If you’re an experienced Principal Software Engineer with expertise in Java, and you’re excited to help deliver solutions that truly matter, we’d love to hear from you.

Qualifications

• Deep expertise in Java, with strong full-stack engineering skills
• Proven experienceleading teams or projectsat a senior/principal level
• Strong knowledge ofsystem architecture, cloud solutions, and API design
• Familiarity withDevOps tools and automation(CI/CD, containers, IaC)

Salary

Salary Type: Annual Salary
Salary Min: £ 45000
Salary Max: £ 70000
Currency Type: GBP