Forward Deployed Engineer

About the role

In this position, you will build and deploy full-stack AI applications on the C3 Ai Platform while working alongside major defence organizations. You will partner with data scientists and subject matter experts to deliver high-stakes software solutions for the UK MOD, NATO, and European partners. The role requires you to translate complex requirements into robust, scalable technical designs that meet stringent security and operational standards. You will be responsible for ensuring that every application component is engineered with reliability, performance, and maintainability in mind. You will act as a critical bridge between advanced technology and real-world mission needs in sensitive environments. This position demands a disciplined approach to software delivery and a commitment to continuous improvement in both process and product. You will play a direct role in shaping how artificial intelligence is operationalized for some of the most demanding use cases in the defense sector.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Engineer and launch full-stack enterprise applications using the C3 Ai Platform, ensuring alignment with defence-grade requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers by sharing best practices and coding standards to elevate the overall quality of the codebase.
• Perform architecture and code reviews to ensure high software quality, security, and scalability across the application lifecycle.
• Troubleshoot, test, and optimize software directly for customer needs, resolving issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Lead technical training, product demos, and deep-dive sessions to facilitate understanding and adoption among stakeholders.
• Create technical documentation and application specifications that are clear, comprehensive, and accessible to diverse audiences.
• Anticipate technical risks and develop mitigation strategies to prevent disruptions and ensure successful deployments.
• Collaborate with product management to refine C3 Ai software capabilities based on feedback and evolving operational requirements.
• Integrate frontend components with backend services to deliver seamless user experiences on the C3 Ai Platform.
• Configure and customize AI models and data pipelines to address specific mission objectives within defense contexts.
• Conduct hands-on troubleshooting in live or simulated environments to maintain system uptime and performance.
• Support the implementation of security controls and compliance measures required for government and military clients.
• Assist in the development of deployment scripts and infrastructure-as-code practices to streamline release cycles.
• Participate in on-call rotations or incident response activities as required to support critical systems.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor or MSc degree in a STEM field or a related discipline as the minimum academic qualification.
• Possess a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in software development using object-oriented languages.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail in complex technical scenarios.
• Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication abilities for effective cross-functional teamwork with diverse stakeholders.
• Show willingness to travel as required to support customers and engage in hands-on problem solving.
• Be eligible to obtain and maintain SC or NATO security clearance, which is essential for the role.
• Meet eligibility for clearance typically requiring at least 5 years of continuous UK residence.
• Have a proven track record of delivering enterprise software solutions in regulated and high-stakes environments.
• Understand the fundamentals of secure software development and how to apply them in practice.
• Be comfortable working with distributed teams and managing competing priorities under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrate ownership of technical decisions and the ability to justify them to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Show commitment to learning and adapting to new technologies while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• Possess the capability to interpret technical requirements and translate them into actionable implementation plans.

Nice to have

• Hold a PhD in a STEM field or related area of study, which may provide deeper technical insight.
• Bring background in deploying software at an enterprise scale within large organizations or government settings.
• Demonstrate proficiency in Python and JavaScript, enhancing your ability to contribute across the full stack.
• Show experience with version control systems like Git, including branching strategies and collaborative workflows.
• Possess familiarity with frontend frameworks such as React, Angular, Vue, Redux, or Backbone for UI implementation.

Practical notes

• This position requires availability for travel as needed to support customer engagements and technical work.
• Candidates must hold or be able to obtain and maintain SC or NATO security clearance.
• Eligibility for clearance typically requires at least 5 years of continuous UK residence.
• The company provides a competitive compensation package, a generous equity plan, and comprehensive benefits.
• This is a full-time engagement based in the London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom location.
• The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to defense industry standards and operational schedules.
• No specific visa sponsorship details are provided; candidates must ensure personal eligibility under current immigration rules.