Software Project Lead

MBDA UK Ltd; Stevenage; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company bonus up to £2,500

Pension contribution up to 14%

Paid overtime opportunities

Flexi Leave up to 15 additional days

Flexible working arrangements

Enhanced parental leave up to 26 weeks

Subsidised meals and free parking

Job summary

A leading defence organisation in the UK is seeking a Software Project Lead to deliver software test capabilities and facilitate robust testing of missile systems. This role emphasizes building high-performing teams and requires proven software development experience, ideally in low-level C programming. The position offers a hybrid working model with competitive salary, company bonuses, and flexible leave arrangements. Ideal candidates will be self-motivated and possess strong project management skills.

Qualifications

• Proven software development experience in relevant technologies.
• Experience in managing multiple projects effectively.
• Self-motivated and adaptable to change.

Responsibilities

• Deliver software test capability in partnership with engineering teams.
• Facilitate robust and timely testing of missile systems.
• Plan and schedule work effectively across projects.

Skills

Software development experience

Low-level C programming

Cost estimation

Project management

Senior level engagement

Job description

Software Project Lead

£55,000 - £75,000 depending on experience

Stevenage (relocation package possible)

Hybrid working: typically 3‑4 days per week on‑site.

Security clearance: British Citizen or dual UK national with British citizenship. BPSS checks required after offer.

What we can offer you

• Company bonus: Up to £2,500 or 21% of salary (Depending on Grade)
• Pension: up to 14% total contribution
• Overtime: paid overtime opportunities (Depending on Grade)
• Flexi Leave: up to 15 additional days (Depending on Grade)
• Flexible working: we welcome flexible arrangements
• Enhanced parental leave: up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, with extra options for paternity, neonatal and fertility treatments
• Facilities: subsidised meals, free parking and more

The opportunity

As part of Test Equipment (TE) Software Resource and Capability UK, you will deliver MBDA UK software test capability in partnership with Electronic Design, the Test Centre of Excellence and other Software Engineering areas. You will help facilitate robust and timely testing of missile systems, supporting development, production and field test scenarios across the MBDA UK product portfolio.

We are a dynamic, multi‑disciplined team specialising in test solution design, including software, hardware, simulation and real‑time systems.

What we're looking for from you

Passionate about building high‑performing teams, with proven software development experience—ideally low‑level C programing—and the ability to act as design authority for your software. You must:

• Have experience in cost estimation.
• Plan and schedule work effectively.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Engage and influence at a senior level across the business.

Self‑motivated, passionate, adaptable and proficient software engineers are invited to apply.

Our company

Peace, freedom and sovereignty are not given. MBDA is a leading defence organisation supporting the armed forces of the UK and its allies. We partner with governments to pursue a common goal of defence.

We offer employee‑led networks (Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability, etc.) and are committed to supporting all candidates throughout recruitment.

Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram and Glassdoor, or visit our careers website for more information.