Principal Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman; Preston; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global defense and technology organization is seeking a Lead Engineer to design and maintain critical infrastructure. You will engage in the full software development lifecycle and mentor junior developers, ensuring the team meets customer requirements. Candidates should have solid experience in Java or React development, strong problem-solving skills, and an understanding of cloud technologies. This role offers flexible hybrid work options along with private healthcare and career development opportunities.

Benefits

Private health care

Performance bonuses

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience as a Software Developer with a focus on Java or React.
• Proven experience in designing and deploying scalable backend systems.
• Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Own team deliverables and collaborate with the Scrum Master.
• Engage in the software development lifecycle.
• Mentor junior developers for team growth.

Skills

Backend Java development

Frontend development with React

CICD and containerisation

Cloud platforms (AWS)

Excellent communication skills

Agile methodologies

Tools

Spring Boot

Maven

Docker

Kubernetes

Jenkins

Job description

Overview

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. 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?

Role Overview

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.” – Matt, Software Manager 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.

Qualifications

• 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.

Clearance

Role clearance type: You must currently hold the highest level of UK Government clearance.

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.

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.