Senior Software Engineer - Secure, Scalable Defense Tech

Dstl; Salisbury; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Dstl is seeking a Senior Software Developer to design, build and deliver secure software capabilities that support critical national security and defence outcomes in the UK. You’ll work with scientists, engineers and operational stakeholders across the full software development lifecycle and influence architectural decisions to shape future software capabilities.

The role includes mentoring colleagues, adopting modern engineering practices and ensuring work aligns with security and governance

Qualifications

• Degree in a STEM-related subject such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Physics or Mathematics.
• Experience in professional software development across one or more languages (Python, C++, Java, Go or Rust).
• Solid understanding of software engineering practices: testing, code quality and maintainability.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and maintain high-quality software applications, prototypes and capabilities.
• Translate user needs and technical requirements into practical software solutions.
• Contribute to software architecture, design decisions and technology selection.
• Develop secure, scalable and maintainable systems using modern engineering practices.
• Build, test, debug and support software through the development lifecycle.
• Use Git and automated testing to improve quality and delivery.

Skills

Python

C++

Java

Go

Rust

Education

STEM Degree (e.g., CS, SE, E&E)

Tools

Git

GitHub/GitLab

Linux

Job description

Dstl is seeking a Senior Software Developer to design, build and deliver secure software capabilities that support critical national security and defence outcomes in the UK. You’ll work with scientists, engineers and operational stakeholders across the full software development lifecycle and influence architectural decisions to shape future software capabilities.

The role includes mentoring colleagues, adopting modern engineering practices and ensuring work aligns with security and governance