Principal Software Engineer at Faculty

WHY FACULTY? We established Faculty in 2014 because we thought that AI would be the most important technology of our time. Since then, we’ve worked with over 350 global customers to transform their performance through human-centric AI. You can read about our real-world impact here [Upgrade to PRO to see link] We don’t chase hype cycles. We innovate, build and deploy responsible AI which moves the needle - and we know a thing or two about doing it well. We bring an unparalleled depth of technical, product and delivery expertise to our clients who span government, finance, retail, energy, life sciences and defence. Our business, and reputation, is growing fast and we’re always on the lookout for individuals who share our intellectual curiosity and desire to build a positive legacy through technology. AI is an epoch-defining technology, join a company where you’ll be empowered to envision its most powerful applications, and to make them happen. ABOUT THE TEAM Our Defence team is focused on building and embedding human-centered AI solutions which give our nation a competitive edge in the defence sector. We collaborate with our clients to bring ethical, reliable and cutting-edge AI to high-stakes situations and maintain the balance of global powers essential to our liberty. Because of the nature of the work we do with our Defence clients, you will need to be eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC) and willing to work between 2 to 4 days per week on-site with these customers which may require travel to locations throughout the UK. When not required on client sites, you’ll have the flexibility to work from our London office or remotely from elsewhere within the UK. ABOUT THE ROLE As a Lead Software Engineer, you will spearhead our backend and edge/IoT engineering for high-stakes Defence projects, implementing patterns and practices that are both scalable and future-proof. You will bridge the gap between proof-of-concept and robust systems, raising the engineering bar across your team and the wider business unit. Acting as both a technical authority and a mentor, you’ll work alongside Machine Learning Engineers and Data Scientists to deliver production-grade solutions that provide immediate value to our customers in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING: - Leading and mentoring a dedicated squad of engineers to ensure the delivery of high-quality, scalable software. - Designing and building complex components of client deliverables across backend and edge/IoT domains. - Implementing robust CI/CD processes and containerisation strategies using Docker and Kubernetes. - Shipping production-ready code in Python and compiled languages such as Rust, C++, or Go. - Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate advanced AI and Machine Learning capabilities into software architectures. - Distilling complex technical concepts into clear, actionable insights for both technical and non-technical stakeholders. WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR: - You have extensive experience in application development and a deep understanding of modern system architecture and design patterns. - You are proficient in Python and at least one compiled language, with a proven track record of shipping code to paying customers. - You bring a leadership mindset, with the ability to empower engineers and foster a culture of technical excellence. - You possess strong hands-on experience with DevOps tools, including GitLab CI/CD, Docker, and deployment on bare metal or Kubernetes. - You are a compelling communicator who can build trusted relationships with client-side engineers and senior business leaders. - You thrive in ambitious environments and are passionate about solving real-world problems with immediate impact. THE INTERVIEW PROCESS 1. Talent Team Screen (30 minutes) 2. Introduction to the role (45 minutes) 3. Pair Programming Interview (90 minutes) 4. System Design Interview (90 minutes) 5. Commercial & Leadership Interview (60 minutes) OUR RECRUITMENT ETHOS We aim to grow the best team - not the most similar one. We know that diversity of individuals fosters diversity of thought, and that strengthens our principle of seeking truth. And we know from experience that diverse teams deliver better work, relevant to the world in which we live. We’re united by a deep intellectual curiosity and desire to use our abilities for measurable positive impact. We strongly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, religions and sexual orientations. Some of our standout benefits: - Unlimited Annual Leave Policy - Private healthcare and dental - Enhanced parental leave - Family-Friendly Flexibility & Flexible working - Sanctus Coaching - Hybrid Working If you don’t feel you meet all the requirements, but are excited by the role and know you bring some key strengths, please don't hesitate in applying as you might be right for this role, or other roles. We are open to conversations about part-time hours.