JOB SUMMARY

We are currently looking for a Lead Developer to join our Technology & Service Operations function within the Digital & Technology group.
This is a full-time opportunity, on a fixed term contract/internal move/loan or temporary promotion basis until 31 March 2026, with the possibility of extension. The role will be based in 10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf London, E14 4PU or South Mimms, Hertfordshire. Please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK and not overseas. We are open to flexible working requests for this role. Please discuss with the hiring manager before accepting an appointment.
Government departments and agencies are working towards implementing a minimum 60% attendance in office sites.
We are currently implementing a flexible, hybrid way of working, with a minimum of 8 days per month working on site to enable the collaboration and contact with partners and stakeholders needed to deliver MHRA business. Attendance on site is driven by business needs so depending on the nature of the role, this can flex up to 12 days a month, with the remainder of time worked either remotely or in the office. Some roles will need to be on site more regularly.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Engineering team, made up of software developers, DevOps engineers, Quality Assurance testers, and data professionals including engineers, scientists, and visualization experts, is tasked with the creation of applications and services, ensuring quality for both new and existing agency offerings, and developing data visualizations through their expertise in data engineering and science.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Our successful candidate will:

• Substantial experience with / working knowledge of one or more of the tools and associated engineering processes listed in the Technical criteria in the person specification
• Experience of creating cloud native web applications that can scale, are performant and secure using modern engineering best practices in an agile, pair programming team using DevOps automation
• Ability to Deliver at Pace, demonstrating strong understanding and application of the most appropriate modern standards and practices

If you would like to find out more about this fantastic opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification!
Please note: The job description may not open in some internet browsers. Please use Chrome or Microsoft Edge. If you have any issue viewing the job description, please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk

SELECTION PROCESS DETAILS

We use the Civil Service Success Profiles to assess our candidates, find out more here.

• Online application form, including questions based on the Behaviour, Experience and Technical Success Profiles. Please ensure all application questions are completed in full; your application may not be considered if any responses are left blank. Our applications are CV blind, and our Hiring Managers will not be able to access your CV when reviewing your application.
• Interview, which can include questions based on the Behaviour, Experience, Technical and Strengths Success Profiles.

Applicants are assessed on whether they meet any mandatory requirements as well as the necessary skills and experience for the role. Applications are scored based on the competency-based answers provided- ensure you have read these thoroughly and allow sufficient time. You can view the competencies for this role in the job description.

NATIONALITY REQUIREMENTS

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

Further information on nationality requirements

WHAT’S THE ROLE?

The Lead Developer is responsible for supporting the Principal Developer in the design, implementation and support of custom software solutions. The post holder will have significant experience in all stages of the software development lifecycle and a solid track record in prioritizing work, guiding team members and managing stakeholders.
The post holder will be hands-on and support in leading the team on the design and development of creating cloud native (Azure), JavaScript based services (Node.js) and front end (React, Next.js) utilising agile methodologies, paired programming, Test Driven Development (TDD) and DevOps.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with internal engineers, architects, and service providers to guarantee the successful delivery of projects.
• Foster a collaborative team environment, providing technical guidance and mentorship to more junior members and align development efforts with project goals.
• Design and develop cloud-native applications and front-end applications using Agile practices. We currently use mainly Node.js, Typescript, Next.js and Azure.
• Support the planning, execution, and implementation of site/software projects, including project management, scope, and risk management.
• Take the lead in refining, troubleshooting, and improving current software while ensuring no regression occurs in operational systems.
• Promote excellent engineering standards and comply with GDS guidelines whenever feasible.

Certain roles within the MHRA will require post holders to have vaccinations, and in some circumstances, routine health surveillance. These roles include:

• Laboratory-based roles working directly with known pathogens
• Maintenance roles, particularly those required to work in laboratory settings
• Roles that involve visiting other establishments where vaccination is required
• Roles required to travel overseas where specific vaccination may be required