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# Lead Software Engineer

- **Company:** Understanding Recruitment
- **Location:** Greater London, UK
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), C++ (Programming Language), Python (Programming Language), PostgreSQL, Machine Learning, Software Architecture, TypeScript, Rust (Programming Language), SC Clearance, Build Management, Kubernetes
- **Published:** September 30, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.understandingrecruitment.com/job/lead-software-engineer-9251/

## About the Role

* Strong experience building complex production systems
 * Expertise in C++, Java, Rust, Python and/or TypeScript
 * Excellent software architecture and system design skills
 * Experience taking technical ownership and leading projects
 * A track record of mentoring and developing engineers

Experience with Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, embedded systems, ML or security is a bonus, not a requirement.

## Description

Lead Software Engineer

Want to lead technically without giving up the engineering?

We're looking for a Lead Software Engineer to take ownership of a key product area - shaping the architecture, tackling complex technical challenges and staying hands-on with the code.

You'll have real influence over how systems are designed, built and shipped, while mentoring engineers and raising the technical bar across the team.

What you'll be doing

 * Own architecture and technical direction for a key product area
 * Design and build complex, production-grade software
 * Make high-impact system design and engineering decisions
 * Stay hands-on while leading and mentoring other engineers
 * Help shape modern engineering practices, including AI-assisted development

What we're looking for

 * Strong experience building complex production systems
 * Expertise in C++, Java, Rust, Python and/or TypeScript
 * Excellent software architecture and system design skills
 * Experience taking technical ownership and leading projects
 * A track record of mentoring and developing engineers

Experience with Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, embedded systems, ML or security is a bonus, not a requirement.

What's on offer

Competitive salary + equity, 7% pension, private healthcare, free daily meals and significant ownership over technical direction.

You'll need the right to work in the UK and be eligible for UK SC clearance.