Lead Software Engineer

SF Recruitment; England; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in the UK is seeking a Lead Software Engineer with a focus on Quality Engineering to shape engineering practices. This hybrid role involves leading engineering projects, driving innovation in QA, and mentoring engineers. Candidates should have significant experience in QA and test automation, particularly with Java technologies and cloud platforms. Competitive salary of up to £100k and the opportunity to work in a flexible environment in Telford makes this an exciting opportunity.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Hybrid working flexibility

Leadership opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in QA, test automation, or software engineering.
• Advanced knowledge of automation frameworks, test design, and QA principles.
• Hands-on experience with Java-based technologies, microservices, and cloud platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex engineering projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Drive innovation in test automation and QA processes.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary Agile teams to deliver scalable solutions.

Skills

Leadership in QA

Test automation

Java technologies

Microservices

Cloud platforms

Problem-solving

Communication

Project management

Job description

Lead Software Engineer - Quality Engineering Focus (Hybrid - Telford)

Location: Telford (Hybrid - 40-70% on-site)

Salary: Up to £100,000 + benefits

Type: Full-time Permanent

Clearance: Must be eligible for SC clearance

Are you a senior Software Engineer / Quality Engineering specialist looking to take a leading role in Agile delivery teams? This is a hands‑on leadership opportunity where you will shape engineering practices, drive automation, and mentor the next generation of engineers while delivering high‑impact digital services.

What You’ll Do

• Lead complex engineering projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables and timely delivery
• Drive innovation in test automation, QA processes, and engineering practices
• Mentor and develop junior and mid‑level engineers
• Collaborate across multi-disciplinary Agile teams to deliver scalable solutions
• Influence technical standards, best practices, and QA strategy across the organisation

What We’re Looking For

• Proven leadership experience in QA, test automation, or software engineering
• Advanced knowledge of automation frameworks, test design, and QA principles
• Hands‑on with Java‑based technologies, microservices, cloud platforms (AWS/Azure), containerisation, and DevOps practices
• Strong problem‑solving, communication, and project management skills
• Experience working in self‑empowered, multi‑disciplinary Agile teams
• Ability to influence and shape technical culture across the engineering function

Why This Role?

• Lead high‑impact digital services with cutting‑edge technologies
• Work in a mature Agile environment with collaborative, multi‑disciplinary teams
• Competitive salary up to £100k + benefits
• Hybrid working: 40‑70% on‑site in Telford, flexible to business needs
• Opportunity to shape QA practices and mentor engineers in a dynamic environment

Additional Info

• Must be UK‑based and eligible for SC clearance
• Senior‑level interview process includes technical assessment and cultural fit

Apply now to take a leadership role in a senior engineering team delivering mission‑critical digital transformation projects.