Software Engineer

Natural History Museum

About Us

The Natural History Museum is both a world-leading science research centre and the most visited natural history museum in Europe. With a vision of a future in which both people and the planet thrive, it is uniquely positioned to be a powerful champion for balancing humanity’s needs with those of the natural world.

It is custodian of one of the world’s most important scientific collections comprising over 80 million specimens. The scale of this collection enables researchers from all over the world to document how species have and continue to respond to environmental changes – which is vital in helping predict what might happen in the future and informing future policies and plans to help the planet.

We are at a pivotal moment in our history as we launch a new strategy setting out our role as the natural world faces increasing threats. Building on our world-leading collection, global reputation for science and as one of the world’s leading visitor attractions, the NHM has ambitious plans leading up to the 150 anniversary of the opening of the Waterhouse Building in 2031, making this a truly exciting time to be part of the NHM team.

About the role

Our Tech team is looking for a talented Software Engineer to join its development team!

You will be producing robust products, services and integrations to help deliver the digital ambitions and goals of the Museum and contributes directly to priority initiatives such as the Urban Nature Project.

Working across multiple projects and technologies to design, you will also build and maintain custom integrations across back-end business and information systems (Dynamics365, Gateway Ticketing), custom web services and APIs and Content Management System (Adobe AEM) components.

This position offers high autonomy to really make a difference, and support to learn and master new technologies from an existing team of experienced developers, analysts and support staff.

About you

Hands-on development skills will be expected in Java application frameworks (e.g. Spring, Hibernate, Web services) as well as a solid understanding of JavaScript Frameworks (React/Node.js). These core skills will be supported by a broad range of experience across web technologies, platforms and protocols together with an enthusiasm to develop your overall capabilities.

Experience of delivering stable software integrations in a complex technical environment is advantageous, however not essential.

What we offer

• 5 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays (full time equivalent)
• Generous defined contribution Natural History Museum Pension Scheme (employer contribution up to 10%)
• Free admission to our exhibitions and many other paid exhibitions at museums, galleries and institutions across the country, such as the British Museum, V&A, National Gallery, Royal Academy and Tate
• Affordable membership to the Civil Service Sports Council which offers a range of benefits including a free digital Tastecard, discounted cinema tickets and corporate membership of English Heritage sites (including Dover Castle and Stonehenge). For more details, visit
• Membership to our Sports and Social Association (for a small fee), which includes access to our in-house gym and clubs such as football, softball, table tennis and tennis and classes in Middle Eastern dance, yoga and Tai Chi
• Staff discounts at a range of local businesses and services
• Up to 50% staff discount at our shops and cafes
• Season ticket, bicycle and rental loans
• Eye care vouchers
• Professional development opportunities – We are committed to the professional development of our staff and offer a range of courses to ensure they reach their potential. We also sponsor professional qualifications and job-related professional membership fees.

How to apply

If that sounds like you please apply online on the Natural History Museum’s careers portal, and provide:

• A comprehensive curriculum vitae giving details of relevant achievements in recent posts as well as your education and professional qualifications.
• A covering letter that summarises your interest in this post, providing evidence of your ability to match the criteria outlined in the person
• Please ensure your letter includes details of your latest salary and notice period.

To apply, please visit our website by clicking the APPLY button.

Closing date: 9am on Wednesday 31 March 2021

Interviews expected 19 – 23 April