Lead Specialist – Software Development, Engineering Analysis

Rolls-Royce SMR

Engineering software leader guiding Python-based tools, quality governance and AI-enabled analysis workflows at Rolls-Royce SMR. Leading specialist teams across Derby, Manchester or Warrington.

Posted 8/21/2026full-timeDerby • 🇬🇧 United KingdomSenior💰 £60,000 - £78,750 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing software solutions using Python to enhance engineering workflows, while providing technical leadership and oversight for quality assurance and governance processes. Capable of mentoring and coaching engineers, driving efficiency improvements, and engaging with external stakeholders in the engineering domain.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Python Software DevelopmentQuality Management PrinciplesTechnical LeadershipCoaching and MentoringEngineering Analysis Workflows

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Software DevelopmentAutomationQuality AssuranceGovernance ProcessesEngineering Software StandardsAI and Digital AdvancementsEfficiency ImprovementTechnical OversightSimulation WorkflowsUser Story Appreciation

Soft Skills

Problem-SolvingCollaborationInfluencingCoachingMentoring

Tools & Technologies

Engineering Analysis ToolsDigital Transformation PlatformsSoftware Development Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

Degree in EngineeringChartered or Working Toward ChartershipBPSS ClearanceDBS CheckFinancial Probity Check

Industry Keywords

Engineering WorkflowsSoftware SolutionsExternal StandardsIndustry TrendsResearch Communities

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide technical leadership for creating and developing software solutions supporting engineering analysis
Create and own the vision for software benefits across engineering workflows
Define and own the strategy for developing robust, efficient software with appropriate quality assurance
Act as the company’s singular technical authority for analysis-related software developed internally or by supply-chain partners
Lead a small team of dedicated software engineers on complex and cross-disciplinary projects
Develop and own tools, processes and guidance for high-quality engineering software development
Identify efficiency and quality improvement opportunities across analysis workflows and lead initiatives to deliver them
Build organisational capability through coaching, mentoring and training
Work with the DigIT function on tools, platforms and wider digital transformation
Support complex and ambiguous problem-solving across analysis domains
Engage with external suppliers, industry forums and research communities
Influence long-term engineering software development strategy, including AI and advanced digital approaches
Collaborate with specialists across the Engineering Specialist Taxonomy on cross-domain challenges and integration

Requirements

What you’ll need

Strong background developing software using Python or similar to automate or streamline typical engineering workflows
Deep knowledge of good practice, external standards and quality principles for engineering software development
Passion for using software to improve efficiency, accuracy and repeatability in engineering analysis
Appreciation for typical engineering analysis/simulation workflows and associated user stories
Experience applying quality management principles to engineering tools, methods and software workflows
Ability to provide robust technical oversight for software developed internally or by suppliers, including defining governance processes
Ability to coach, mentor and support engineers developing software solutions, and provide formal training
Ability to represent RR-SMR externally, including with customers, regulators or industry bodies
Strong awareness of industry trends, digital advancements and AI-driven opportunities
Degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science or related discipline
Chartered or actively working toward Chartership
Applicants required to obtain BPSS clearance
Satisfactory completion of a DBS check
Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check

Benefits

Comp & perks

Bonus – Performance-related target opportunity 12.5%
Benefits Allowance – £2,200 per annum for a bespoke package
Pension – 12% employer and 6% employee contributions
Holidays – 28 days (+ public holidays) with ability to buy or sell up to 4 days
Private Medical Insurance – BUPA single cover
Life Assurance – 6× pensionable pay
Home Office Support – £250 one-off payment for new starters
Hybrid working
Flexible, inclusive, and supportive working environment
Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business
Culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning