Principal Software Development Engineer / Data Architect (Biotech)

ZipRecruiter; England; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotech client seeks a Principal Software Development Engineer/Data Architect to manage critical lab systems in Oxfordshire. The role emphasizes overseeing GxP compliance and supporting system integrations with LIMS and SDMS. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in regulated environments and strong collaboration skills across tech and business teams.

Qualifications

• Over 8 years of experience in supporting lab systems in a regulated environment.
• Strong knowledge of GxP compliance and system validation.
• Experience with LIMS, SDMS, and digital transformation projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the configuration and validation of laboratory systems.
• Author and review key system lifecycle documentation.
• Act as a technical lead for lab systems in a compliance setting.

Skills

System validation lifecycle documentation

Compliance frameworks

Lab systems integration

Cross-functional collaboration

Written and verbal communication

Job description

Job Description

Principal Software Development Engineer / Data Architect Oxfordshire, England Initial 12 Daily Rate Contract Contract due to start August/September

Overview:
We're hiring a Principal Software Development Engineer on behalf of a leading biotech client to oversee the configuration, validation, and lifecycle support of critical lab systems. This role combines software engineering expertise with architectural ownership across digital quality systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• 
  Lead technical configuration and validation of laboratory and EHS systems in a GxP environment.
• 
  Oversee authoring and review of system lifecycle documents including system configurations, SOPs, risk assessments, and test protocols.
• 
  Act as a digital administrator and technical lead for lab systems, ensuring compliance and system performance.
• 
  Collaborate with lab automation teams to integrate standalone systems with LIMS and SDMS platforms.
• 
  Support system upgrades, enhancements, and end-user support within regulated frameworks.

Required Skills:

• 
  8+ years of experience supporting and maintaining lab systems in a regulated environment.
• 
  Strong knowledge of system validation lifecycle documentation and compliance frameworks (GAMP, CSV, etc.).
• 
  Experience integrating lab systems (LIMS, SDMS, ELN, LES) and supporting digital transformation projects.
• 
  Ability to lead cross-functional collaboration between IT, validation, and business teams.
• 
  Excellent written and verbal communication, with a compliance-first mindset.

Nice to Have:

• 
  Experience with scripting or development within scientific systems.
• 
  Exposure to lab automation technologies or system interfacing standards.
• 
  Previous leadership or team management experience within digital quality domains.