Principal Software Engineer

We're looking for an exceptional, hands-on technical leader who wants to shape the future of a market-leading automotive business as we transform into a cutting-edge, tech-enabled mobility platform.

This is a high-impact role for an architect-level developer who still loves to build. You'll define technical direction, raise engineering standards, and lead from the front-driving innovation, scalability, and engineering excellence across the business.

What You'll Do

• Design and evolve scalable, secure system architecture across our platform
• Write high-performance, production-ready code in Ruby on Rails, React, Node.js and TypeScript
• Own and optimise our PostgreSQL database strategy for high-volume performance
• Line manage and mentor a small team of senior engineers and QAs
• Oversee delivery quality from outsourced partners, ensuring internal standards are met
• Refine Jira workflows and improve our overall Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
• Champion CI/CD best practice and cloud-native scaling within AWS
• Research and implement AI-assisted engineering tools to improve productivity and quality
• Collaborate with Product Managers to shape technical roadmaps aligned to business goals

Do you have experience in Ruby on Rails?, * Expert-level Ruby on Rails, React and PostgreSQL experience

• Strong TypeScript, Node.js and AWS infrastructure knowledge
• Proven experience managing and developing high-performing technical teams
• Experience improving SDLC processes and delivery governance
• Confident reviewing code and overseeing third-party engineering output
• Strong DevOps and CI/CD understanding
• Experience implementing AI development tools (e.g. Copilot, Cursor)
• Automotive, leasing or CAP data experience is advantageous but not essential, * Principal Software Engineering: 6 years (required)
• PostgreSQL and React : 5 years (required)
• Ruby on Rails: 5 years (required)

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Hybrid working from our Reading HQ
• A genuine opportunity to influence the technical direction of a market-leading UK business
• Hands-on leadership with real strategic impact
• A forward-thinking, technology-driven culture
• Career progression as we continue our technology transformation

Support and demonstrate our DRIVE Values:

• Dedication
• Respect
• Integrity
• Value
• Excellence

If you're a big-picture thinker who still loves solving complex engineering problems, this is your opportunity to lead, innovate, and build technology that drives the future of mobility., * Company events

• Enhanced maternity leave
• Enhanced paternity leave
• Free parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On-site parking
• Sick pay
• Work from home