Lead Software Engineer
Digital Catapult
Lead Software Engineer
Digital Catapult
Advances AI and immersive tech; supports SMEs
Digital Catapult · Belfast, United Kingdom (Hybrid) · Full-time · Posted 2026-11-09
Salary: GBP 65,000–75,000
Workplace: hybrid
Department: Software Engineering & Data Services
We are looking for a Lead Software Engineer to join our Belfast office and lead technical delivery across Digital Catapult's software projects, from digital twin environments for the UK Digital Twin Centre to the platforms behind our AI assurance testbed programmes. You will design and build software hands-on, set the technical direction on the projects you lead, mentor engineers and help grow our engineering presence in Belfast.
WHAT YOU’LL DO (Duties)
Lead technical delivery on a variety of projects, from rapid prototypes to production platforms.
Design and build software end to end using TypeScript, Python, Docker, Kubernetes and infrastructure-as-code on Azure.
Set the standard for architecture, code quality, security and testing on the projects you lead.
Mentor engineers and help build our engineering team in Belfast.
Work with product, design, research and client stakeholders to turn requirements into working software.
Own the operation of the platforms you build, including monitoring, troubleshooting and performance.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR (Experience)
Technical leadership on complex, multi-language software projects.
Strong backend engineering in TypeScript/JavaScript plus at least one other language such as Python or Rust.
Frontend development with a modern framework such as React.
CI/CD, containers and cloud deployment experience (for example GitHub Actions, Docker, Kubernetes).
Comfortable collaborating with engineers, designers, researchers and non-technical stakeholders.
Interest in using generative AI tooling well, and in emerging technologies such as digital twins.
Salary: c. £65,000-75,000 pa (subject to experience) + discretionary bonus + competitive benefits package
Deadline for applications: Monday Nov 16, 10 am GMT (we do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications, so you are encouraged to submit your application at the earliest opportunity)
Like the sound of what we do but unsure if this is the right role for you? If you are interested in joining Digital Catapult and hearing about our latest vacancies, please email across your CV to
Pre-Employment Background Checking Process
Due to the nature of our work across government and public sector contracts, including working with sensitive information, all applicants will need to successfully complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance process prior to starting employment. **
Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion**
We recognise and value the advantages and opportunities that come with having people from diverse backgrounds working with us and it is our ambition to build an organisation which is representative and reflective of UK society.
We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, candidates from minority and underrepresented groups and from candidates with more or less experience, provided the requisite skills can be demonstrated.
As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. Please do speak with us about adjustments that could support you through our interview process.
Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer.
We have a vibrant and engaging culture where all voices are heard and a variety of employee led affinity groups who champion initiatives and provide opportunities for feedback to be shared.
We use moments in the year to educate everyone at Digital Catapult on different aspects of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and to raise awareness.
We also enjoy socialising and having fun together through a variety of company-wide events held throughout the year including our football team, running and climbing groups and volunteering activities.
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Advances AI and immersive tech; supports SMEs
Digital Catapult helps UK businesses adopt AI, immersive tech, and future networks by connecting industry, government, and academia and by providing access to facilities and expertise. It runs physical and digital spaces where startups and small companies can prototype and pilot new products and services, bridging the gap between research and real-world use. Unlike organizations that only do research or sell technology, Digital Catapult focuses on early adoption and practical collaboration to remove barriers to technology deployment. Its goal is to grow the UK economy by enabling the practical use of advanced digital technologies in manufacturing and creative industries.
Explore more opportunities at Digital Catapult