AI Lead Engineer Location: Croydon (once per week in-office)Duration: 6-12 months (initial)Security Clearance: Active SC clearance requiredMust have: 5+ years of unbroken UK residencyOur client, a leading organisation in innovative technology solutions, is hiring for a reputed client to support a critical AI-focused project. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled Lead Engineer to shape the future of AI integration within complex systems.What you''ll be doing: Providing technical leadership to engineering teams working on AI components, ensuring alignment with architecture and delivery plans. Overseeing technical design decisions, particularly around Large Language Models (LLMs), agentic AI logic, and related components, ensuring scalable and controlled integration. Collaborating with architects to translate high-level solution designs into detailed engineering approaches. Working with delivery managers to identify and manage technical risks, dependencies, and constraints. Reviewing design artefacts, integration plans, and testing strategies to provide assurance across workstreams. Ensuring AI components adhere to SDLC updates, including model validation, safety checks, and governance protocols. Engaging with external AI technology providers to clarify technical requirements and integration considerations. Supporting engineering teams in resolving complex technical challenges related to AI model behaviour, data flows, and system interfaces. Coaching developers and data