Skills

Communication Python C# CI/CD Kanban Scrum Problem-solving Research Architecture Machine Learning Programming git Azure AWS Software Development cloud platforms Agile SDLC C++ Microservices

Job Specifications

Software Engineer (AI & Autonomous Systems)

Location: UK (Hybrid / On-site options)

Security Clearance: SC required or eligible

Employment Type: Permanent

About the role

We’re hiring a permanent Software Engineer to help design, build, and scale AI-enabled software systems used in real-world, mission-critical environments. This role suits someone with strong core engineering fundamentals who enjoys integrating intelligent capabilities into production systems - not academic research or throwaway prototypes.

You’ll be working on long-term platforms where quality, security, and maintainability matter.

What you’ll be doing
Designing and developing object-oriented software using C#, C++, and Python
Integrating AI / machine learning components into production applications
Building and maintaining APIs, services, and microservices
Working across the full Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
Translating requirements into robust, scalable software designs
Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on complex, secure systems
Supporting integration, debugging, and optimisation activities
Contributing to secure and compliant software design
Supporting planning activities and delivery estimates where required
Essential skills & experience
Strong experience in object-oriented programming (C# or C++)
Production-level Python experience
Experience delivering software across the full SDLC
Experience integrating or deploying AI-enabled capabilities
Solid understanding of software design and system architecture
Strong problem-solving and communication skills
SC clearance or eligibility to obtain it (UK residency required)
Desirable experience
Experience with AI agents, autonomous systems, or decision engines
Exposure to LLMs, machine learning models, or AI APIs
CI/CD, automated testing, and Git experience
Agile delivery (Scrum / Kanban)
Cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or similar)
Experience in defence, policing, or regulated environments
Awareness of secure AI, data privacy, or AI governance
Why join us?
Permanent role working on long-term, impactful AI systems
Opportunity to grow into senior, lead, or architect positions
Work on systems where engineering quality genuinely matters
Competitive salary and benefits package
Flexible working options
Support for security clearance and ongoing professional development
How to apply

Apply via LinkedIn or message us with your CV.

If you’re a strong engineer looking for a long-term role building real AI-enabled systems, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Company

Espanaro is a leading engineering consultancy and service delivery partner across the UK, specialising in systems engineering, software engineering, and systems integration within the Defence sector. Our team boasts a wealth of military knowledge and expertise, with many members being ex-forces. This practical experience is complemented by academics with backgrounds in mathematics, theoretical physics, and computer science. Espanaro's experienced delivery team includes project managers, tech leads, scrum masters, and product... Know more