Lead Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation; Cheltenham; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology firm in Cheltenham is seeking a Lead Engineer to oversee critical infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have experience in backend Java or frontend development, alongside skills in CICD and containerization technologies. This role provides an opportunity to shape innovative solutions in a supportive environment, offering benefits such as private healthcare and performance bonuses while promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

Private health care

Career development opportunities

Performance bonuses

Flexible working schedule

Qualifications

• Experience as a Software Developer with a strong focus on backend or frontend development.
• Proven experience in designing and deploying scalable backend systems.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, ideally with experience in agile methods.

Responsibilities

• Oversee team deliverables and collaborate with the Scrum Master.
• Engage in all software development lifecycle phases.
• Mentor junior developers and support the team's growth.

Skills

Backend Java development

Frontend development with React

CICD

Containerization technologies

Tools

Jenkins

Kubernetes

Docker

AWS

Job description

UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available

CLEARANCE TYPE: UK-Highest Level of Government Clearance

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

Salary: £55,700 - £83,500

Define Possible at Northrop Grumman UK

At Northrop Grumman UK, our mission is to solve the most complex challenges by shaping the technology and solutions of tomorrow. We call it Defining Possible.

This mind‑set goes beyond our customer solutions; it’s the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community. So, what’s your possible?

Opportunity

This is more than just a job; it’s a mission.

As a Lead Engineer you play a pivotal role in designing, developing and maintaining the critical infrastructure that powers our services. You will be self‑driven and organised with a passion for building elegant and stable solutions. You will have the chance to work on a variety of exciting projects with complex challenges within a unique space. You’ll be at the forefront of delivering core solutions that have real world impact.

In addition, you will have a strong leadership mentality, guiding your team through both technical and delivery challenges to accommodate the customer’s requirements.

“My purpose is to lead a team of engineers, rise to the challenges presented, push the boundaries and define possible together.” – Chris Rayner, Engineering Authority at Northrop Grumman UK.

Responsibilities

• Ownership of the team deliverables, working with the Scrum Master to define a path forward that meets the customer’s requirements.
• Get involved in the entire software development lifecycle from requirements gathering to design, implementation, test and deployment.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams including product, front‑end development and QA.
• Mentor and guide junior developers contributing to the overall team’s growth.

Benefits

We can offer you a range of flexible, hybrid and options to suit you, including optional compressed working schedule with every other Friday off. Our benefits include private health care, career development opportunities and performance bonuses. For a comprehensive list of benefits, speak to our recruitment team.

We are looking for

• Experience as a Software Developer with a strong focus on one of:
  • Backend Java development and its ecosystem (Spring boot, Maven)
  • Frontend development and its ecosystem (React, Npm)
• Proven experience in designing, developing & deploying scalable backend systems.
• Familiarity with CICD, containerisation, deployment technologies & cloud platforms (Jenkins, Kubernetes, Docker, AWS).
• Excellent communication, collaboration & problem solving skills, ideally with some experience in agile ways of working.

Security clearance

You must be able to gain and maintain the highest level of UK Government clearance.

Why join us?

• A mission to believe in – Every day we contribute to building a more secure and connected world, expanding our reach from land, sea, and air to space and cyberspace. From engineering data and intelligence solutions, to developing maritime navigation and control systems and innovating command and control systems for the UK and NATO, what we do together matters.
• A place to belong and thrive – Every voice matters at our table meaning you can bring your authentic self to work. From our Employee Resource Groups backed by thousands of employees, to sponsoring Cheltenham Pride and our partnerships with Association For Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers, Forces Transition Group, Mind, and Women in Defence – we are passionate about growing and supporting our inclusive community where everyone can belong.
• Your career, your way - Shape your career journey with diverse roles, mentorship, and development opportunities that fuel your curiosity, channel your expertise and nurture your passion. Looking for flexibility? Balance your professional career with your personal life, health and wellbeing benefits, discount schemes, pension benefits and investment in your future development. Speak to our team to find the balance that’s right for you.

Ready to apply?

Yes – Submit your application online. Your application will be reviewed by our team and we will be in touch.

Possibly, I’d like to find out more about this role – Reach out to our team for more information and support: [e-mail].

No, I don’t think this role is right for me – Our extensive UK growth means we have exciting, new opportunities opening all the time. Speak to our team to discuss your career goals.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.