Principal Software Developer - C++ and Rust

They are looking for a Principal Software Developer to lead delivery on demanding softwareprojects. This role is focused on C++ and Rust development. This is a hands-on role for an experienced developer who wants to stay close to the code. You'll lead a team of 6 to 12 engineers, own delivery end to end, and spend a meaningful share of your time writing code, reviewing designs, and unblocking the team. It's a delivery role, not a strategy role. You'll shape how we build things and how the team grows around you. Responsibilities Lead the delivery of complex software projectsWork alongside other leads to set direction for the defence functionStay hands-on: set technical direction, design software and write code, leaning in where neededMentor engineers across experience levelsPlan and estimate delivery, manage technical debt, and make pragmatic trade-offs between speed, quality and long-term maintainabilityWork directly with clients to shape requirements, manage expectations and build trustRun code and design reviews, set the bar for quality, and hold the team to itEmbed strong testing practices in the team's workflow, from unit tests through to integration and acceptance testing What makes a great candidate

A track record of technically leading complex software deliveriesExcellent programming skills in C++ or RustExperience of modern end-to-end software engineering workflows, including requirements management, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenanceExperience integrating AI-assisted tools into development workflows without compromising on quality, security or complianceExperience developing for Linux, ideally with exposure to industrial computing platforms, single-board computers or real-time environmentsA leader who enjoys delivery and makes the engineers around them betterComfortable operating in ambiguous environments and making decisions with incomplete informationExcellent communicator, equally at home in a code review, a client meeting, or a one-to-one with a junior engineerStrong academic foundations, typically a first-class degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics or Mathematics from a leading universityExperience in defence or national security

Work alongside high-calibre colleagues from organisations known for engineering excellenceHigh-impact work on complex problems with direct consequences for clientsA flat structure and a small, growing team, where you'll help shape how we workNewcastle base with international exposure across our global office network25 days' holiday allowance plus bank holidaysMatching pension contributions up to 6%Private health insurance through BupaDiscretionary bonus Excellent training and career development opportunities exist for the right candidate.Basic salary £90-130,000 + bonus + excellent benefitsBased Newcastle upon Tyne.