Senior Software Engineer for Secure Defense Tech

Government Cyber Profession; Idmiston; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Specialist allowance £2,758 annually

Security clearance

Job summary

Dstl in Wiltshire is seeking a Senior Software Developer to join a multidisciplinary team delivering secure, scalable software solutions for national security and defence applications. You will influence architectural decisions and champion modern software engineering practices within complex operational environments.

The role involves full software lifecycle responsibilities, collaboration with scientists and engineers, and mentoring peers.

Qualifications

• Degree in a STEM-related subject such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or equivalent relevant experience.
• Experience using languages such as Python, C, C++, Java, Go or Rust.
• Strong understanding of software engineering best practices, including testing and maintainability.
• Experience using Git and collaborative development platforms such as GitHub or GitLab.
• Experience working within Linux environments, including scripting and automation.
• Experience working in Agile or iterative development environments.
• Ability to analyse complex technical challenges and develop effective software solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and maintain high-quality software applications, prototypes and technical capabilities.
• Translate user needs and technical requirements into practical software solutions.
• Contribute to software architecture, technical design decisions and technology selection.
• Develop secure, resilient, scalable and maintainable systems using modern engineering practices.
• Build, test, debug and support software throughout the development lifecycle.
• Use version control, automated testing and continuous improvement practices to enhance software quality and delivery.
• Work collaboratively with engineers, scientists, programme teams and operational stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities to improve tools, processes and development methodologies.
• Mentor and support colleagues, sharing technical knowledge and best practice.
• Keep up to date with emerging technologies and apply innovative approaches where they add value.
• Ensure all work is conducted in accordance with security, safety and governance requirements.

Skills

Python

C

C++

Java

Go

Rust

Git

Linux

Agile

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Degree in STEM (e.g. Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Physics, Mathematics)

Tools

GitHub/GitLab

Job description

Dstl in Wiltshire is seeking a Senior Software Developer to join a multidisciplinary team delivering secure, scalable software solutions for national security and defence applications. You will influence architectural decisions and champion modern software engineering practices within complex operational environments.

The role involves full software lifecycle responsibilities, collaboration with scientists and engineers, and mentoring peers.