Junior Software Developer

targetjobs UK; Plymouth; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency is seeking a Junior Software Developer to join their team. This role allows you to develop technical skills while contributing to real software delivery in a supportive environment. Eligible candidates must have completed the second year of a relevant IT degree by September 2026 and seek a year-long industry placement. The position offers a competitive annual salary of £34,800, along with pension contributions and growth opportunities within a positive work culture.

Benefits

Salary of £34,800

Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme contributions

Support for personal development

Qualifications

• Must have completed the second year of a relevant IT-related degree by September 2026.
• Not available for those with or studying for a Master's degree.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the delivery of software components within a multidisciplinary team.
• Actively participate and contribute to the developer community.
• Continuously improve the quality of the software and systems produced.

Skills

Software development under supervision

Understanding of software testing

Mentoring junior colleagues

Education

Completed second year of relevant IT degree

Job description

Job Summary

As a Junior Software Developer on placement at HM Land Registry, you’ll develop your technical skills by contributing to real software delivery within a supportive, multidisciplinary team. You will work under guidance from experienced colleagues, gaining hands‑on experience while building confidence and capability.

To be eligible, you must have completed the second year of a relevant IT‑related degree by the start date in September 2026, and be seeking a year‑long industry placement before completing your studies.

At HM Land Registry, you’ll join our Software Development Practice – a community of around 100 developers working across multiple teams, focusing on continuous learning, collaboration, and career advancement. This is an exciting time to join us as we continue a major digital transformation programme. Our software systems are part of the critical national infrastructure, helping to safeguard land and property ownership valued at £7 trillion, and enabling over £1 trillion of lending across England and Wales.

On successful completion of the placement, there may be potential to be considered for a permanent role.

Job Description

As a Junior Software Developer, you will learn on the job by contributing to the delivery of software components. In this role you will:

• Develop skills while working under supervision to deliver stories in a multidisciplinary team
• Understand and be proficient in different types of testing
• Be aware of but not responsible for security
• Coach and mentor more junior colleagues

Main Duties

• Actively participate and contribute to the developer community
• Continuously improve the quality of the software and systems produced
• Develop own skills and knowledge through agreed personal development activities
• Develop software by following industry best practice, aligned to HMLR standards and approved technologies
• Identify and implement optimisations to the development process
• Learn and understand legacy technology and systems as required
• Learn the basics of Land Registry operations, including casework and register data

What Will You Get From Us?

A year tailored to meet your learning and development needs, with opportunities to gain experience across a range of areas. We will work with you to ensure you get the most from your placement. We’ll support your development aspirations and offer flexibility in your working week to help you maintain a positive work‑life balance.

At HMLR, we take a blended approach to where we work. We require everyone to spend at least 60% of their working time in the office. During your training period, for the first 2 to 4 weeks, you will be expected to spend 100% of your time in the office.

Qualifications

You have completed the second year of a relevant (IT‑related) degree programme, by the start date September 2026, and are looking for a placement year in industry, before finishing your degree.

Please note this post is not available for those that have or are studying for a Masters degree.

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £34,800, HM Land Registry contributes £10,081 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

The HMLR Way – Our Shared Commitment

• Inclusive & Empowering: A positive, healthy environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute
• High Performance: Access to tools, resources, and development opportunities within a supportive culture
• Value & Recognition: We value team and individual improvement, learning from setbacks as much as celebrating success
• Clarity & Transparency: Clear communication of our vision and priorities, so our direction and decisions are evident

You can find more information on our rewards package on our website.