Software Engineer - National Security Division

Forwardrole; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency in National Security is looking for Software Engineers to work in collaborative roles across various programming languages including Java, Python, and C++. Candidates should have active clearance and a commitment to mission objectives. Opportunities involve both full-stack and embedded systems engineering, focusing on projects of high importance. The roles are based at key locations in the UK, mostly on-site.

Benefits

Incremental uplift on your package

Streamlined interview processes

Relocation packages to Defence hubs

Fast learning and progression opportunities

Engagement in high-side projects

Qualifications

• Active clearance to work in the National Security domain.
• Ability to thrive in collaborative multi-domain teams.
• Mission-focused mindset with commitment to outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Full-Stack Software Engineering roles in various languages.
• Embedded & Systems Engineering opportunities.
• Software–Cyber Hybrid Skillsets for mission-oriented work.

Job description

Overview

September/October is the time of year when the Defence Market shifts. Contracts have been awarded, budgets are being reviewed, and teams are scaling — meaning new opportunities for those with the right clearance. The clients we’re supporting are investing heavily in their National Security divisions, offering the chance to work on projects of the utmost importance in environments designed to keep you supported and fulfilled. Demand for cleared talent continues to overmatch supply, so it’s never been a better time to assess your career options.

About the roles

We’re headhunting Software Engineers across a broad spectrum of languages/levels for several clients in the National Security ecosystem.

Roles range from agile delivery in secure mission programmes through to R&D for next-gen high-side platforms for the client in \'West\' or \'North\'

Locations are all across the typical NS Hubs in London, the South West and the North West.

We’re supporting opportunities from SFIA Level 3 (mid-level) through to SFIA Level 6 (Principal) — all hands-on roles

Scope of roles include

• Full-Stack Software Engineering (Java, JavaScript, Python, C#, React and more)
• Embedded & Systems Engineering (C, C++)
• Software–Cyber Hybrid Skillsets (engineers blending software development with ethical hacking, reverse engineering, or exploit analysis)

Our Clients’ Value Proposition

We’ve deliberately chosen to only partner with the best employers in National Security.

Depending on your preferences, we have offerings from large organisations with strong reputations and clear growth trajectories, to smaller specialist outfits that offer to get in at the ground floor of a closer-knit environment.

Whatever environment you thrive in, we can align you with the right opportunity.

What unites them all

• Incremental uplift on your package (including cleared-engineer bonus)
• Streamlined interview processes for clarity and pacy decisions
• Relocation packages to Defence hubs (especially in the NorthWest)
• The chance to learn fast across multiple domains with rapid progression internally
• Maximum engagement in high-side projects, keeping you off the bench and on the mission

What They’re Looking For

• Active clearance to work in the National Security domain with the client
• Engineers who thrive in collaborative, multi-domain teams
• Mission-focused mindset: commitment to outcomes, not just technology

What They’re Not Looking For

• Narrow specialists unwilling to broaden their remit
• Contractors chasing short-term gains
• Remote-only candidates — these are on-site, mission-first roles

Next Steps

If you’re cleared and ready to explore your options, submit your CV here.

Or, connect with us on LinkedIn for a confidential discussion about your situation — we’ll share intel on the wider market and help you map out your next step in the National Security domain.