Amber Labs
Lead Node.js Developer - Must have central government experience

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Lead Node.js Software Engineer (Government Experience Required)
Permanent or 12-Month Fixed-Term Contract
The Company
At Amber Labs, we are a cutting-edge UK and European technology consultancy that prioritises empowering autonomy, promoting experimentation, and facilitating rapid learning to provide exceptional value to our clients. Our company culture is centred around collaboration, where all colleagues, regardless of their role, work together to minimise risk and shorten delivery times. Our team consists of highly-skilled cross-functional consultants, analysts, and support staff.
Your Role
We’re seeking a highly capable and proactive Lead Node.js Software Engineer to assist on a major government programme. You’ll lead a team of engineers, shape technical direction, and ensure delivery of scalable, secure, and cloud-native solutions. This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll balance coding, mentoring, and architectural decision-making.
What You’ll Do
- Architect, build, and maintain RESTful APIs and microservices using Node.js
- Lead the implementation of asynchronous messaging patterns using Kafka and AWS SQS
- Define and manage infrastructure using Terraform for IaC and automated deployments
- Oversee containerisation strategies with Docker and deployment to AWS ECS
- Guide integration of authentication and user management via AWS Cognito
- Own CI/CD workflows using GitLab, ensuring high-quality, automated delivery pipelines
- Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and growth
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align delivery with business and user needs
- Ensure compliance with government standards and security protocols throughout the SDLC
- Drive agile ceremonies, code reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Your Skills and Experience
- Proven experience leading backend development teams in government or public sector projects
- Deep expertise in Node.js, REST APIs, and microservices architecture with exposure to Java
- Strong understanding of asynchronous messaging and event-driven systems
- Hands-on experience with AWS, Docker, Terraform, and GitLab CI/CD
- Familiarity with AWS and secure cloud-native deployments
- Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a collaborative mindset
- Ability to balance technical depth with strategic thinking and delivery focus


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Diversity & Inclusion
At Amber Labs, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace for all. Our commitment includes:
- Valuing diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds
- Prohibiting all forms of harassment, discrimination, and victimisation
- Educating all new hires on our D&I policies and responsibilities
We are committed to building a workplace that reflects and celebrates the diversity of our employees and communities.
Additional Information
Please note that we are unable to consider candidates who require sponsorship or hold a visa of any type at this time.
What Happens Next?
Our Talent Acquisition Team will be in touch to advise you on the next steps. We typically follow a two-stage interview process, with a potential third conversation with our Partners if needed.
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