Senior Technical Assurance Lead – Defence Digital (SC Cleared)

develop; Reading; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

develop is seeking a Technical Assurance Lead for a major international defence programme in Reading. The role requires active SC clearance and sole UK nationality, with on-site work two days per week and a permanent appointment starting Oct/Nov 2026.

You will lead the development of the programme's Digital Assurance capability, define the assurance strategy, and provide senior-level assurance across digital capabilities while engaging with senior stakeholders and supporting ATO-related

Qualifications

• Active SC clearance is required.
• Sole UK nationality required.
• Experience developing assurance strategies and plans.
• Experience leading assurance across a complex programme.
• Strong writing and documentation skills.
• Experience working in defence networks, digital and/or security environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and mature the programme’s Digital Assurance capability.
• Define and implement the assurance strategy and plan.
• Lead assurance activity across complex technical capabilities.
• Provide assurance at formal design reviews and test events.
• Establish the programme’s strategic technical baseline.
• Produce high-quality strategic assurance and technical documentation.
• Engage with senior client stakeholders and set expectations around technical assurance.
• Support activities relating to Authorisation to Operate (ATO).

Skills

Technical assurance

Stakeholder management

Technical writing

Security concepts

Job description

develop is seeking a Technical Assurance Lead for a major international defence programme in Reading. The role requires active SC clearance and sole UK nationality, with on-site work two days per week and a permanent appointment starting Oct/Nov 2026.

You will lead the development of the programme's Digital Assurance capability, define the assurance strategy, and provide senior-level assurance across digital capabilities while engaging with senior stakeholders and supporting ATO-related