Lead Software Engineer

Location: Bristol (Aztec West)

Day Rate: 500-650 per day

Work Model: Hybrid (3 days in the office per week)

About the Role:

RC Fornax is a veteran-owned engineering consultancy delivering high-value solutions for complex, safety-critical systems in industries where reliability and precision are paramount. We are seeking a visionary and highly skilled Lead Software Engineer to lead the development of an AI-powered platform that will revolutionise engineering outsourcing, recruitment and defence procurement. This role combines cutting-edge artificial intelligence as a service (AIaaS) with deep software engineering expertise to create tools that enhance transparency, efficiency, and strategic decision-making in complex procurement environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and deploy AI-enabled software solutions tailored to defence procurement challenges.
• Build scalable, secure, and modular systems that integrate with existing procurement platforms and data sources.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across defence, government, and industry to understand requirements and validate solutions.
• Ensure compliance with defence standards, cybersecurity protocols, and ethical AI principles.
• Lead technical architecture decisions and mentor junior developers as the team grows.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in software development (Python, Java, C++, or similar).
• Be proficient in using AI-coding assistants (like Cloude Code) to substantially optimise delivery cycles.
• Experience with data engineering, APIs, and developing full-stack solutions in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Familiarity with procurement systems, defence contracting, or government tech is a strong plus.
• Ability to work independently and drive innovation in ambiguous environments.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Degree in Computer Science, AI, Engineering, or related field.
• Experience with secure software development and defence-grade compliance.
• Knowledge of LLMs, generative AI, or autonomous decision systems.
• Understanding of procurement regulations (e.g., MOD, NATO, or equivalent).
• Application of machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics to automate and optimise procurement workflows.

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to shape the future of defence procurement through AI.
• Direct impact on national security and strategic innovation.
• Flexible working arrangements and a culture of autonomy and excellence.

Additional Information

• Eligibility for UK security clearance is essential.