Invitise Ltd
Lead Software Engineer

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Lead Software Engineer (Python & Django)
We're looking for a Lead Software Engineer (Python & Django) for a central government department based in London, Manchester, Birmingham, or Cardiff (hybrid), on an initial 12 months contract, paying up to £720 per day (Inside IR35).
This is a hybrid role with around 40% office attendance, roughly two days per week.
The successful Lead Software Engineer (Python & Django) will design, build and maintain resilient backend services on a high-profile government digital programme, working within a secure, GDS-aligned environment. You'll lead and mentor engineers across agile squads while staying hands-on, driving engineering standards and technical design decisions. You'll translate user needs into robust, test-driven solutions and support live services for performance, stability, and resilience.
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.
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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.
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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.
You will need proven experience working with the following:
- Extensive commercial Python development
- Strong hands-on Django
- System design and software architecture
- End-to-end delivery of secure, scalable services
- Agile multidisciplinary teamwork and strong stakeholder communication
- Leading or mentoring engineering teams, with solid testing, debugging and QA practices


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The following would be beneficial:
- Government Digital Service (GDS) experience
- Public sector, government or defence sector experience
- Working in regulated or secure environments
- Understanding of accessibility and government service standards
You'll need to hold or be eligible to obtain SC clearance for this role.
Interested?
Please apply below.
Key Skills and Experience:
Lead Software Engineer, Technical Lead, Python, Django, REST APIs, System Design, Software Architecture, TDD, Agile, GDS, London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Hybrid/Remote, Contract, Inside IR35
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