Software Development Lead

Job Description

Job Title: Software Development Lead

Location: Warton, 5 days per week on site

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role

Salary: £60,326+ (DOE)

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow, shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

Job Description:

You’ll work with experts across Mission Systems, Autonomy, Simulation, and Test & Evaluation, alongside partners in academia and industry. As a Software Development Lead, you’ll transform bold ideas into innovative software solutions, leading them from concept to demonstration and shaping the future of air systems.

Core duties:

• Lead and define software development activities in line with departmental priorities and technology roadmaps
• Coordinate collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams, internal experts, and external partners to deliver high-quality engineering outcomes
• Champion best-practice software engineering methods and promote adoption of relevant industry standards
• Ensure robust engineering governance, working with Technical Authorities and domain specialists in Ground Test, Flight Test, and Flight Operations
• Oversee project delivery to agreed time, cost, and quality targets, managing risks and providing clear progress reporting to stakeholders
• Prepare business cases and investment proposals to support software research and capability development initiatives
• Identify and evaluate emerging technologies through Technology Watch activities to inform future capability roadmaps
• Provide effective line management, conducting performance reviews and supporting career development from early careers through to senior specialists

Essential Skills:

• Good understanding of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) and core software engineering principles, including SOLID design practices
• Proven experience developing software in multiple high-level programming languages (e.g. C, C++, Java, Python)
• Proficiency in Model-Based Software Engineering (MBSE) and design tools such as Enterprise Architect or Cameo
• Experience in leading and managing engineering teams, from small groups to larger multi-disciplinary teams
• Ability to develop proposals, bids, and business cases, supporting strategic investment and project planning activities

The Systems Technology & Capability Delivery team:

Join FalconWorks’ Systems Technology & Capability Delivery Team, driving the future of aerospace innovation. We identify emerging technologies, develop early concepts, and deliver them into next-generation Air Sector products. This fast-paced, creative environment goes beyond traditional development, turning ideas quickly into real-world applications.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work, this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family, support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.

Closing Date: 5th April 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

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