Python Developer

Salt; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Salt is seeking a mid-level Python developer focused on security to join its R&D-driven team with hybrid work options in Cambridge and London. You will build production-ready Python services, collaborate with ML researchers and SREs, and contribute to CI/CD and cloud deployments.

The role emphasizes clear communication, problem-solving, and the ability to translate research outputs into scalable features in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Python with production experience.
• Ability to break down ambiguous problems and explain reasoning.
• Experience in small, fast-moving product teams.
• Familiarity with containers and cloud concepts.
• Good communication and live problem-solving skills.
• At least 3+ years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, test, and maintain backend services and prototypes in Python.
• Work from prototype outputs to production-ready components with ML/AI researchers and SREs.
• Participate in live coding and code reviews.
• Collaborate with product managers and researchers to turn ideas into demos and features.
• Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize systems for performance and reliability.
• Contribute to CI/CD, Docker workflows, and cloud deployment patterns.
• Communicate trade-offs and design decisions clearly.

Skills

Python proficiency

Problem-solving

Team experience

Containers Docker

Communication

3+ years experience

Education

Degree in CS/Engineering or related

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

Python Developer – Security – Cambridge/London

Salary: £60k - £80k

Hybrid: 1 or 2 days per week

Start: ASAP

My new client is looking for a problem-solving focused mid-level Python engineer (specialist) who wants to build product features in a research-driven environment. You’ll be expected to contribute to product development, deliver clean, testable Python code, collaborate with small cross-functional teams, and communicate your thinking clearly in high-cadence development cycles.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, test, and maintain backend services and prototypes in Python.
• Work from prototype/research outputs to production-ready components alongside ML/AI researchers and SREs.
• Participate in live coding/problem-solving rounds during development and code reviews.
• Collaborate closely with product managers and researchers to translate ideas into working demos and production features.
• Help troubleshoot, debug, and optimize systems (performance, reliability, observability).
• Contribute to CI/CD, containerization (Docker) workflows, and cloud deployment patterns as required.
• Communicate trade-offs and design decisions clearly; adapt to changing requirements.

Required Skills & Experience

• Strong Python proficiency (day-to-day production experience).
• Demonstrable problem-solving aptitude — ability to break down ambiguous problems and explain reasoning clearly.
• Experience working in small teams or fast-moving product environments where engineers wear multiple hats.
• Practical familiarity with containers (Docker) and general cloud concepts.
• Good communication skills — able to think out loud during live problem-solving.
• Typically 3+ years’ relevant experience (flexible; equivalent experience or strong demonstrable ability considered).

Desirable (but not required)

• Experience with Kubernetes or container orchestration.
• Exposure to ML/AI projects, data pipelines, or research-driven engineering.
• Experience with observability tooling, CI/CD, and testing best practices.
• Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related technical field (or demonstrable equivalent).