Principal Software Engineer C++ and Rus, Newcastle upon Tyne

Principal Software Engineer C++ and Rust - is required by highly successful and fast growing technology consultancy. They build data, AI and software solutions for clients in a broad range of industries, working on demanding problems in challenging environments. The role They are looking for a Principal Software Engineer to lead delivery on demanding software projects. This role is focused on C++ and Rust development.This is a hands-on role for an experienced engineer who wants to stay close to the code. You'll lead a team of 6 to 12 engineers, own delivery end to end, and spend a meaningful share of your time writing code, reviewing designs, and unblocking the team. It's a delivery role, not a strategy role. You'll shape how we build things and how the team grows around you.Responsibilities Lead the delivery of complex software projects Work alongside other leads to set direction for the defence function Stay hands-on: set technical direction, design software and write code, leaning in where needed Mentor engineers across experience levels Plan and estimate delivery, manage technical debt, and make pragmatic trade-offs between speed, quality and long-term maintainabilityWork directly with clients to shape requirements, manage expectations and build trust Run code and design reviews, set the bar for quality, and hold the team to it Embed strong testing practices in the team's workflow, from unit tests through to integration and acceptance testing What makes a great candidateA track record of technically leading complex software deliveries Excellent programming skills in C++ or Rust Experience of modern end-to-end software engineering workflows, including requirements management, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance Experience integrating AI-assisted tools into development workflows without compromising on quality, security or complianceExperience developing for Linux, ideally with exposure to industrial computing platforms, single-board computers or real-time environments A leader who enjoys delivery and makes the engineers around them better Comfortable operating in ambiguous environments and making decisions with incomplete informationExcellent communicator, equally at home in a code review, a client meeting, or a one-to-one with a junior engineer Strong academic foundations, typically a first-class degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics or Mathematics from a leading university Experience in defence or national security is a strong plusWhy join them Work alongside high-calibre colleagues from organisations known for engineering excellence High-impact work on complex problems with direct consequences for clients A flat structure and a small, growing team, where you'll help shape how we work Newcastle base with international exposure across our global office network25 days holiday allowance plus bank holidays Matching pension contributions up to 6% Private health insurance through Bupa Discretionary bonus Excellent training and career development opportunities exist for the right candidate. Basic salary£90-130,000 + bonus + excellent benefits Based Newcastle upon Tyne.TPBN1_UKTJ