Job Title: DV Cleared Senior Principal Engineering Lead - Mission IT Location: Basingstoke Duration: 6 months Rate: Up to £849 per day via an approved umbrella company Must be willing and eligible to go through the DV clearance process Our client, a leading organisation in national security and defence, is hiring for a reputable client to appoint a Senior Principal Engineering Lead to provide strategic IT platform and engineering leadership within mission-critical environments. This role is pivotal in shaping technical strategies, delivering complex solutions, and driving growth across on-premise, hybrid, and cloud capabilities. What you'll be doing:Lead multi-disciplinary technical teams to deliver innovative, secure IT solutions aligned with MOD standards, JSPs, DEFSTANs, NIST, and NATO frameworks.Oversee programme delivery, bidding activities, and develop end-to-end architectures for Defence IT, C5ISR, and mission systems.Collaborate across functions to develop strategies for new capabilities, evaluate emerging technologies such as cloud, AI/ML, and secure networks.Ensure architectural governance, technical assurance, and compliance with statutory and regulatory standards.Support business development, strategic planning, and key facility development to meet future customer needs. What you'll bring:Extensive experience leading complex IT projects and teams, with a strong background in systems engineering and enterprise architecture (e.g., TOGAF).Recognised expertise in secure networks, cloud, edge computing, and mission-critical software.Proven ability to influence strategy, develop innovative solutions, and foster positive cultural change.Excellent communication skills, capable of engaging senior stakeholders and motivating teams.A degree in Science or Engineering, complemented by professional qualifications and ongoing CPD.Knowledge of MOD acquisition frameworks and a track record of outstanding technical contributions in the defence or security sectors. Join our client's team and contribute to impactful projects that support national security. If you are a respected leader with a passion for innovation and strategic delivery, we want to hear from you!GAF).JBRP1_UKTJ