Cleared Software Engineer

Ambitious Cleared Software Engineer wanted to drive real impact in Defence & Government from Cambridge.

National security software doesn’t get a second chance if it fails. That’s the backdrop here: an established defence and government sector employer with hundreds of staff, running large-scale programmes where reliability and clearance matter as much as code quality. This Cleared Software Engineer role sits inside that world, in Cambridge, on systems that genuinely get used rather than shelved.

Here’s what you’ll be doing:

Design and build software components for live Defence & Government programmes, working to formal security and quality standards

Write, test and maintain code across the full development lifecycle, from requirements through to deployment

Debug and resolve issues in complex systems where downtime isn’t an option

Work alongside systems engineers, architects and government stakeholders to translate requirements into working software

Produce clear technical documentation that satisfies audit and assurance processes

Contribute to code reviews and help junior engineers develop their skills

Active or eligible for UK Government security clearance (SC level or above)

Solid commercial experience in software development, ideally with C++, C#, Java or Python

Comfortable working within structured, process-driven environments with established frameworks

Strong problem-solving instincts and the patience to work through complex technical issues methodically

Clear written and verbal communication, especially when explaining technical decisions to non-technical stakeholders

A collaborative mindset. This isn’t a role for someone who prefers to work in isolation

Salary of £52,500 to £68,000, reflecting mid-level experience and the demands of cleared work

Private medical and dental insurance for you and your family

Enhanced pension scheme and performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive benefits package built for long-term careers, not short stints

Office-based role in Cambridge, with structured onboarding and clear progression routes

Why pursue a career in Defence & Government?

Defence and government technology budgets keep growing, and so does demand for engineers who can be trusted with sensitive systems. Cambridge has quietly become one of the UK’s strongest hubs for this kind of work, with established employers offering the stability and depth of project that start-ups simply can’t match. Few sectors reward precision and discretion quite like this one.