Lead Software Engineer - Python (Django) - SC Cleared - ContractRate: Up to £750 per day (Umbrella)Duration: 12 monthsLocation: 40% office based (London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, North East)IR35: InsideSecurity Clearance: SC (essential)The role:A government organisation is seeking a Senior / Lead Software Engineer to design, develop and support secure, scalable digital services within a regulated export control environment. You will provide technical leadership across agile squads, contributing to resilient, user-centred services aligned to GDS standards and national security requirements.Key responsibilities:Lead design and delivery of scalable Python/Django-based servicesTranslate user needs into robust technical solutionsBuild secure, test-driven, high-quality code across multiple workstreamsSupport and maintain live services (performance, stability, reliability)Collaborate across multidisciplinary agile teams (BA, UCD, Engineers)Contribute to system design, integration, and architecture decisionsDrive continuous improvement in engineering practices and deliverySkills and Experience:Strong Python and Django development experience (essential)Proven system design and architecture capabilityExperience working in agile, multidisciplinary teamsStrong communication and technical leadership skillsExperience in secure / regulated environments (e.g. government, defence)SC clearance (or eligibility) essential5-10+ years'' software engineering experience (ideally senior/lead