Lead Software Engineer

ZipRecruiter; North East; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

ZipRecruiter seeks a Lead Software Engineer in Newcastle upon Tyne to pioneer a high-caliber engineering environment. The role requires hands-on leadership in designing cloud-first software while mentoring top talent. Ideal candidates will have deep expertise in Java, Python, or C#, proven cloud solution delivery expertise, and a relevant degree from a prestigious university. Competitive salary of up to £140,000 plus a large package awaits the right candidate.

Qualifications

• Deep programming expertise in OO languages.
• Proven record of delivering complex solutions in the cloud.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on engineering leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of high-performance software solutions.
• Mentor and coach engineering teams while coding.
• Drive innovation and partner with stakeholders on business growth.

Skills

Java

Python

C#

AWS

Azure

Education

2.1 degree or higher in Computer Science

Job description

Job Description

Lead Software Engineer

Newcastle upon Tyne (Hybrid)

Up to £140,000 + Large Package

We’re building something rare in the North East — a high-calibre engineering environment where only the very best make the cut. This is not a “tick-the-box” leadership role. We want a hands-on engineering leader who can set technical direction, grow capability, and still stay close enough to the code to earn credibility with the team.

If you come from consulting, hedge funds, investment banking or top-tier tech, you’ll recognise the pace, rigour, and standards we hold ourselves to. This is a chance to take that pedigree and shape the future of a growing engineering practice here in Newcastle.

What you’ll do

• Lead the design and delivery of high-performance, cloud-first software solutions
• Set technical direction and best practice across engineering teams
• Mentor, coach and grow exceptional talent while keeping your own hands on the code
• Shape and develop the engineering practice — standards, culture, capability
• Drive innovation: challenge assumptions, spot opportunities, and push boundaries
• Partner with senior stakeholders on strategy, pre-sales and business growth initiatives

What makes you a great fit

• Deep programming expertise in Java, Python, C# or other OO
• Proven record of delivering complex solutions in the cloud (AWS, Azure)
• Strong background in designing scalable, performant systems
• Exposure to fast-paced environments — consulting, financial services or big tech
• Ability to balance big-picture thinking with hands-on engineering leadership
• Experience influencing at both technical and business leadership levels
• 2.1 degree or higher in Computer Science (or related field), ideally from a Russell Group university

Why this is different

• Up to £140,000 + large package for the right person
• Ownership of technical strategy and practice development from day one
• Shape and grow a high-performing team in Newcastle, not just slot into one
• Work on projects with global impact, directly tied to world events and markets
• Join an environment that prizes curiosity, pace, and excellence — no compromise

This is a chance to lead, build and still code at the sharp end. If you’ve got the pedigree, the drive and the ambition to shape something special in the North East, we want to hear from you.