Lead Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corp.; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 58,000 - 86,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible hybrid work

Private healthcare

Cash health plan

Holiday buy/sell scheme

Career development

Job summary

Northrop Grumman UK in Manchester is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to design, develop and maintain critical infrastructure across diverse projects. You will guide a team, drive end-to-end delivery, and ensure scalable, robust solutions that meet customer needs within an agile environment.

You will lead in backend Java development, with Spring Boot and Maven, and contribute to frontend tasks using React and npm. Expertise in CI/CD, Docker, Kubernetes and AWS is preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience as a software developer with backend focus (Java) and/or frontend experience.
• Ability to design, develop and deploy scalable backend systems.
• Strong collaboration in Agile environments.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the team’s deliverables with the Scrum Master to define the path forward.
• Contribute across the full software development lifecycle from requirements to deployment.
• Collaborate with product teams, frontend engineers and QA to deliver high‑quality solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior developers to grow team capability.

Skills

Backend Java

Spring Boot

Maven

Frontend React

npm

Tools

CI/CD

Containerisation

Jenkins

Kubernetes

Docker

AWS

Job description

UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: YesRELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeLead Software EngineerLocation: Manchester – hybridSalary: £58,000 - £86,000 DOEClearance: You must currently hold the highest level of UK Government clearanceDefine Possible at Northrop Grumman UKWhat’s your possible?At Northrop Grumman UK, you are part of a team driving innovation where it matters most – solving tomorrow’s challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. It’s what we call 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.The OpportunityThis is more than just a job; it’s a mission.As a Lead Software Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in designing, developing and maintaining the critical infrastructure that powers our services. You’ll work across a variety of exciting, complex projects within a unique mission space, building elegant, stable solutions that have real‑world impact.You’ll also bring strong leadership, guiding your team through both technical and delivery challenges to ensure solutions meet customer needs.“My purpose is to lead a team of engineers, rise to the challenges presented, push the boundaries and define possible together.”What You’ll DoTake ownership of the team’s deliverables, working closely with the Scrum Master to define the best path forward.Contribute across the entire software development lifecycle, from requirements and design through implementation, testing and deployment.Collaborate with product teams, front-end engineers and QA to deliver high‑quality solutions.Mentor and guide junior developers, contributing to team capability and skill growth.What We’re Looking ForExperience as a Software Developer with strong focus on one of the following:• Backend Java development (Spring Boot, Maven)• Frontend development (React, npm)Proven experience designing, developing and deploying scalable backend systems.Familiarity with CI/CD, containerisation, deployment technologies and cloud platforms (Jenkins, Kubernetes, Docker, AWS).Excellent communication, collaboration and problem‑solving skills, ideally gained in an agile environment.If you don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. We value potential, curiosity and a willingness to grow.Security ClearanceDue to the nature of our work, you must be British National for this clearance type.You must be able to currently hold the Highest Level of UK Government security clearance.Our recruitment team is available to support you through the process: [e-mail] working options, including hybrid working and an optional compressed fortnightPrivate healthcareCash health planHoliday buy/sell schemeCareer development programmes and specialist trainingPerformance‑based bonusesWhy Join Us?A Mission to Believe InEvery day we help build a more secure and connected world across land, sea, air, space and cyberspace. The work we do together matters.A Place to Belong and ThriveEvery voice matters. You can bring your authentic self to work and be part of an inclusive community supported by employee‑led groups and partnerships that champion diversity, mental health and service leavers.Your Career, Your WayShape your career with diverse roles, mentoring, training opportunities and the flexibility to balance your professional and personal life. We invest in your wellbeing, growth and future.Ready to Apply?Yes – Submit your application online.Possibly – Contact our team for more information: [e-mail] – Explore other opportunities with us. We’re growing across the UK.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.