AI/ML Engineer

Up to £82,000 + Bonus + Outstanding Benefits + London/Hybrid

If you're an AI Engineer who wants to build production AI solutions rather than endless proof of concepts, this is an opportunity to help shape how enterprise AI is adopted across a global organisation.

You'll be responsible for designing, deploying and optimising machine learning models, LLM-powered applications and agentic AI workflows within Microsoft Azure. Working alongside platform engineers, data scientists and data engineers, you'll help move AI from experimentation into secure, scalable products that deliver real business value.

This is an engineering role with genuine ownership. You'll be involved throughout the AI lifecycle, from designing and deploying solutions through to monitoring, optimisation and governance. You'll also work with modern AI technologies and help influence how they're adopted across the wider business.

You'll be working with technologies including Azure Databricks, Azure Machine Learning, Azure AI Foundry, LangChain, LangGraph and Python, building enterprise AI applications using RAG, vector databases, prompt orchestration and tool-calling patterns.

You'll need experience with:

• Deploying LLMs and machine learning models into Azure enterprise environments.
• Azure Databricks, Azure Machine Learning and ideally Azure AI Foundry.
• Building production AI applications using LangChain, LangGraph and Python.
• MLOps / LLMOps including deployment, monitoring, governance and lifecycle management.
• RAG, vector databases, prompt engineering and tool-calling patterns.
• Building end-to-end AI/ML pipelines from data preparation through to production.
• Working with technical and business stakeholders to deliver AI solutions.
  
  

Desirable experience includes MLflow, MCP, Docker, Kubernetes, GitLab CI/CD and Azure Data Factory.

What's on offer

• Up to £82,000 salary
• Annual performance bonus
• 28 days' holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to buy more
• Private medical insurance
• Excellent pension, life assurance and a flexible benefits package

If you're already working in AI and want to spend more time building modern, production-ready LLM and agentic AI solutions using one of the strongest Azure AI stacks available, this role offers the chance to make a genuine impact while continuing to develop with a fast-moving technology landscape.

Assistant Operations Manager 

Halifax | Permanent, full time 

£35,000 - £45,000 plus benefits 

Talent Locker is working with a growing and well-established organisation to recruit an Assistant Operations Manager. This is an excellent opportunity for an organised, proactive professional who thrives in a varied role and enjoys keeping a business running efficiently behind the scenes.

Working alongside the Operations Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in supporting the day-to-day running of the business. From office operations and supplier management to HR administration, compliance, finance support and bid administration, you'll be at the heart of ensuring the business operates smoothly and efficiently.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, takes ownership of their work, and is always looking for ways to improve processes.

The Role

As Assistant Operations Manager, you'll be responsible for:

• Supporting the day-to-day running of the office and business operations
• Developing and maintaining office procedures and administrative systems
• Managing office supplies, procurement activities and supplier relationships
• Coordinating facilities, maintenance, office security and visitor management
• Maintaining company asset registers and operational records
• Organising meetings, company events and diary management
• Acting as a key point of contact for internal teams and external partners
• Producing professional reports, presentations and business documentation
• Supporting business compliance, health & safety and ISO documentation
• Assisting with budget tracking, invoice processing and office finance administration
• Supporting HR administration including onboarding, offboarding, training records and absence management
• Providing administrative support for tender submissions and bid activities
• Identifying opportunities to improve internal processes and operational efficiency

Your Experience

You'll be a highly organised individual with excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach to your work.

You'll ideally have:

• Previous experience within an Operations, Office Management, Business Support or Senior Administration role
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a busy environment
• A proactive mindset with excellent problem-solving abilities
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Word and Excel
• Experience maintaining accurate records and documentation
• The ability to work independently whilst building strong relationships across the business
• A professional approach with the ability to handle confidential information

Desirable Experience

• Experience using CRM or operational management systems
• Google Workspace
• Procurement, facilities or inventory management
• HR administration or employment law knowledge
• Health & Safety administration
• Experience supporting tender or bid processes
• Producing reports and analysing operational information

Requirements

Due to the nature of the organisation's work, applicants must:

• Be a UK National
• Be eligible and willing to undergo Security Clearance (SC)
• Be willing to go into the office 5 days per week 

To apply or to find out more information, please send your CV to Emma on emma@talentlocker.co.uk

Software Engineer (C++ / Linux / AI-Assisted Development)

Permanent | Fareham (Hybrid – 3 days a week)

Security Clearance : It is an essential requirement for candidates to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC Level) prior to appointment or be ELIGIBLE for clearance.

Develop Software That Matters

We're partnering with a leading engineering organisation to recruit Software Engineers to join a team developing next-generation, safety-critical software used in complex operational environments.

This is an opportunity to work on highly resilient, distributed systems where quality, reliability and innovation are at the heart of everything you do. You'll tackle technically challenging problems while helping drive the adoption of AI-assisted software engineering across the development lifecycle.

Whether you're an experienced Software Engineer or a Senior Engineer looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Be Doing

• Designing and developing high-performance software from system requirements
• Building and maintaining distributed, real-time software applications
• Developing software primarily in C/C++ (ADA also considered)
• Supporting the full software lifecycle, including design, integration, testing and validation
• Investigating and resolving software defects
• Working within Linux-based development environments
• Using AI-powered tools such as GitHub Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot to enhance development, testing and documentation

Skills & Experience

You'll have experience with some or most of the following:

• C and/or C++
• Linux
• Git
• Python (desirable)
• JIRA
• IBM DOORS or similar requirements management tools
• Distributed, real-time or safety-critical systems

You'll also have a strong understanding of the software development lifecycle and be degree qualified in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Telecommunications or a similar technical discipline.

Engineers from aerospace, defence, automotive, rail, telecommunications or other highly regulated industries are encouraged to apply.

Why Apply?

• Work on technically complex, large-scale engineering programmes
• Be part of an organisation embracing AI-assisted software development
• Hybrid working (3 days on site)
• Excellent long-term career development
• Collaborative, highly technical engineering environment
• Opportunities available at both Intermediate and Senior level

Apply today for a confidential discussion.

Contract Software Engineer (C++ / Linux)

12-Month Initial Contract | Fareham | Hybrid (3 Days On Site) | Inside IR35

Security Clearance: Candidates must be eligible to obtain SC (Security Check) clearance prior to appointment.

We're recruiting Software Engineers to join a long-term programme developing complex, safety-critical software for large-scale, mission-critical systems.

Working as part of a highly skilled engineering team, you'll contribute across the full software development lifecycle, from design and development through to integration, testing and validation.

You'll need experience with:

• C and/or C++
• Linux
• Git
• Software integration and testing
• Real-time, distributed or safety-critical systems

Experience with Python, ADA, JIRA or IBM DOORS would be advantageous but isn't essential.

Engineers with backgrounds in aerospace, defence, automotive, rail, telecommunications or other highly regulated industries are encouraged to apply.

Initial 12-month contract with strong extension potential. Hybrid working. Multiple opportunities available at Intermediate and Senior level.

Apply now for a confidential discussion.

Senior UX/UI Designer - Portsmouth (Hybrid) - Contract Outside IR35, £65-£75 Per Hour

We're supporting a global engineering and technology consultancy that partners with some of the world's most recognised organisations to deliver complex digital transformation programmes across sectors including defence, aerospace, government, transport and financial services.

They're now looking for an experienced Senior UI/UX Designer to support the refresh of an established software product, improving usability, user journeys and interface design within a technically complex environment.

What you'll be doing

• Designing intuitive user interfaces for an existing software platform
• Producing wireframes, screen layouts and interactive design concepts
• Creating clear user journeys and interaction flows
• Simplifying complex technical functionality into user-friendly experiences
• Applying UX best practice, accessibility principles and usability standards
• Collaborating closely with technical stakeholders and engineering teams
• Producing high-quality design documentation suitable for implementation
• Iterating designs based on user feedback and technical constraints

What we're looking for

• Proven commercial experience in UI/UX design for software or technical products
• Strong portfolio demonstrating real-world product delivery
• Experience designing wireframes, user flows and interface layouts
• Excellent understanding of usability and user-centred design principles
• Experience working alongside software engineering teams
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Strong practical mindset with the ability to deliver at pace

Nice to have

• Experience with Figma or Adobe XD
• Knowledge of WCAG accessibility standards
• Human Factors or ergonomics experience
• Experience working on complex, regulated or legacy systems
• Defence, government or other highly regulated industry experience

Contract Details

• Outside IR35
• Short-term consultancy engagement
• Initial onsite requirement before moving to predominantly remote delivery
• Immediate start preferred

Senior UX/UI Designer - Portsmouth (Hybrid) - Contract Outside IR35, £65-£75 Per Hour

Lead Security Architect - Farnborough (Hybrid) - Up to £100,000 (Base Salary)

Are you an experienced Security Architect looking to make a real impact? We're seeking a Lead Security Architect to help design, assure, and deliver secure technology solutions supporting highly sensitive and mission-critical environments.

This is an opportunity to work on complex programmes where security is embedded from the outset, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to solve challenging technical problems across cloud, infrastructure, software engineering, and DevSecOps environments.

The Role

As a Lead Security Architect, you will provide technical leadership and security assurance across a range of projects, from proof-of-concepts through to live operational services. You will work closely with engineering teams, stakeholders, and subject matter experts to ensure security is integrated throughout the delivery lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of secure architectures for complex systems.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement proportionate security controls.
• Define security strategies aligned to project and organisational objectives.
• Collaborate with software, infrastructure, DevSecOps, and cyber security teams.
• Produce security artefacts, assurance documentation, and evidence for compliance requirements.
• Design solutions to identify, manage, and mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Support secure-by-design approaches across development and operational environments.
• Provide technical guidance and leadership on security best practices.
• Engage with stakeholders, accrediting authorities, and assurance teams throughout project delivery.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Security architecture experience within highly regulated or secure environments.
• Risk management expertise using recognised frameworks such as NIST 800-53.
• Experience designing security controls across networks, endpoints, identity, cryptography, and cloud platforms.
• Strong understanding of secure development practices and secure-by-design principles.
• Experience producing security documentation, risk assessments, policies, and assurance artefacts.
• Knowledge of Agile, DevSecOps, CI/CD, and secure delivery methodologies.
• Ability to work effectively with technical teams and senior stakeholders.
• Excellent written communication and documentation skills.

Desirable Experience

• Knowledge of JSP 604, JSP 453, and assurance processes.
• Experience working with government accreditors or security assurance bodies.
• Understanding of defence, national security, or safety-critical environments.
• Familiarity with technologies such as:
  • Azure and AWS
  • Docker and Kubernetes
  • Apache Kafka and NiFi
  • Node.js and TypeScript
  • MongoDB
  • AI and Machine Learning technologies

Security Requirements

Due to the nature of the work, candidates must either hold current UK Security Clearance or be eligible and willing to undergo the clearance process. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and satisfy relevant vetting requirements.

Lead Security Architect - Farnborough (Hybrid) - Up to £100,000 (Base Salary)

Solution Architect - Farnborough (Hybrid) - £600 - £650 Outside IR35

We are seeking an experienced Solution Architect to help shape and deliver secure, mission-critical digital solutions within Defence and National Security environments.

This is an opportunity to work on complex technical challenges where security, reliability, and operational effectiveness are paramount. You'll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design innovative solutions that support critical decision-making and mission success.

The Role

As a Solution Architect, you will play a key role in the design, development, and delivery of secure technology solutions operating in highly regulated and secure environments. Working closely with engineers, developers, architects, and stakeholders, you'll translate operational requirements into robust technical architectures and guide delivery from concept through to implementation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and architect secure digital solutions for complex Defence and National Security programmes.
• Develop and deploy Cross Domain Solutions, including design, testing, assurance, and operational use.
• Interpret user and business requirements and translate them into scalable technical architectures.
• Assess and recommend products and technologies that meet functional and security requirements.
• Define technical requirements for bespoke software and infrastructure components.
• Communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Support solution assurance activities and ensure compliance with relevant security standards and guidance.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Cross Domain Solution design, implementation, testing, and assurance.
• Strong understanding of NCSC guidance and patterns for secure data import and export.
• Experience evaluating and selecting technology products against solution requirements.
• Ability to define technical requirements for development teams.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• Knowledge of hardware and software-based cross-domain approaches.
• Strong understanding of cryptography and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
• Experience working with MOD systems, processes, and assurance frameworks.

Desirable Experience

• Secure-by-Design development methodologies.
• Data-Centric Security principles.
• Hardsec Cross Domain appliances.
• Cloud deployment automation.
• Strong networking expertise.
• Experience delivering solutions within highly secure or regulated environments.

Security Requirements

Due to the nature of the work, applicants must hold or be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC). Higher levels of clearance may be advantageous depending on programme requirements.

Solution Architect - Farnborough (Hybrid) - £600 - £650 Outside IR35

Infrastructure Engineering Manager

Farnborough - fully on site | £75k + Benefits | SC Cleared

Security Clearance : It is an essential requirement for candidates to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC Level) prior to appointment. 

Are you an experienced Infrastructure Engineering Manager looking to lead talented engineering teams while delivering critical infrastructure services and projects?

Our client is a growing technology consultancy supporting complex and secure environments across Defence, Government, and National Security sectors. They are seeking an Infrastructure Engineering Manager to drive team performance, technical excellence, and successful project delivery across a diverse infrastructure landscape.

The Role

This is a leadership position combining people management, resource planning, and technical oversight. You'll lead a team of infrastructure engineers, ensuring the right skills and resources are aligned to project delivery, operational priorities, and business growth.

Working closely with project, service, and operations teams, you'll help shape engineering capability while supporting the delivery of secure, scalable, and resilient infrastructure solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of infrastructure engineers.
• Conduct performance reviews, career development plans, and regular 1-2-1s.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and skills development.
• Manage resource allocation, capacity planning, and workforce optimisation.
• Provide technical leadership across infrastructure projects and operational services.
• Contribute to problem-solving, architecture reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across project and operational teams.
• Ensure engineering standards, processes, and best practices are maintained.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience managing technical or infrastructure engineering teams.
• Strong people leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Background in infrastructure operations, platform engineering, or IT services.
• Experience working within Agile, Scrum, ITIL, or SDLC environments.
• Strong organisational, planning, and decision-making abilities.
• Comfortable working within complex, multi-disciplinary technology environments.

Desirable Certifications

• ITIL Foundation
• Microsoft Azure
• Google Cloud
• Cisco
• VMware
• Microsoft 365

What's on Offer?

• The opportunity to lead and develop a high-performing engineering team.
• Exposure to complex, mission-critical technology programmes.
• Ongoing professional development and certification support.
• A collaborative environment focused on innovation and technical excellence.

Apply today to learn more about this exciting leadership opportunity.

Network Engineer – Defence
High Security Clearance Required
£65k + benefits
Farnborough based

This role sits within a team responsible for building and supporting secure cloud infrastructure in a highly secure environment.

The position combines traditional network engineering with cloud-native platform networking, supporting Kubernetes-based services operating within air-gapped infrastructure. You'll work across both physical and virtual networking layers, helping maintain secure, resilient and highly available platforms.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting and improving secure cloud platform networking
• Maintaining and troubleshooting cross-cluster communications within air-gapped Kubernetes environments
• Configuring and supporting software-defined networking technologies
• Implementing automation to reduce operational overhead and improve platform reliability
• Supporting platform upgrades, maintenance activities and incident resolution
• Participating in an on-call rota (1 week in 6)

The team is looking for engineers with experience in several of the following areas:

• IP networking, WAN technologies and Layer 2-7 networking
• Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)
• Linux systems administration
• Kubernetes administration in production environments
• Kubernetes networking, including CNI technologies such as Cilium
• Service Mesh technologies such as Istio
• MPLS L3 VPN or cloud-native networking
• Infrastructure automation using Bash, Python, Git or similar tools
• Supporting secure and resilient network environments

This role would suit a Network Engineer who enjoys troubleshooting complex environments, automating repetitive tasks and working across both traditional networking and modern cloud-native platforms.

Power Platform Lead / Architect | Contract (9–12 Months) | £450-475pd Outside IR35

We're seeking an experienced Power Platform Lead / Architect to join a major transformation programme within the financial services sector.

This is a 9-12 month contract based in Glasgow, with a hybrid working model of 3 days per week in office and 2 days remote.

You'll be responsible for leading Power Platform architecture, driving best practice, and optimising data across the platform to deliver scalable business solutions.

Previous experience within financial services is highly desirable.

Immediate availability or short notice preferred.