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Lead Software-Engineer Data Intelligence in der Schmiede (w/m/d) - Job Opportunity at BWI GmbH

Essen, Germany
Full-time
Senior
Posted: June 16, 2025
Hybrid
EUR 85,000 - 105,000 annually based on senior-level data engineering roles in the German defense sector, with BWI's government contractor status typically offering compensation at the higher end of market ranges plus comprehensive benefits packages that significantly enhance total compensation value.

Benefits

Comprehensive sabbatical program with value accumulation account enabling extended career breaks for professional development and work-life balance optimization
Premium employer-funded occupational pension scheme providing superior retirement security beyond statutory requirements
Flexible remote work arrangements with up to 20 days annual mobile working across European countries, supporting international lifestyle and work-life integration
30 days annual leave with individualized adjustment options exceeding German statutory minimums
Individual professional development budget with unlimited LinkedIn Learning access and BWI Academy resources
High-end technology package including HP EliteBook notebook, premium smartphone, and complete home office setup
Bicycle leasing program through salary conversion offering tax-advantaged transportation solutions
Digital benefits card with monthly credits for flexible spending on daily necessities
Flexible working hours with trust-based time management system
Modern workspace facilities with startup-style collaborative environment

Key Responsibilities

Lead the strategic evolution of core data and software architecture frameworks while establishing next-generation development processes and tooling infrastructure that drives organizational data intelligence capabilities
Collaborate directly with stakeholders, product owners, and solution architects to conceptualize and deliver minimum viable products that solve complex defense sector challenges through innovative data-driven approaches
Drive end-to-end development of sophisticated machine learning models and classical algorithmic solutions using Python, R, and C# within agile Scrum frameworks to deliver measurable business impact
Establish comprehensive testing, documentation, and maintenance protocols for data applications while providing expert-level support and optimization for mission-critical production systems
Architect seamless integration solutions ensuring optimal interoperability between frontend interfaces, backend systems, and IoT components across complex distributed environments
Partner with product owners to maximize strategic value delivery for defense operations through innovative data intelligence solutions that enhance operational effectiveness
Lead customer engagement initiatives including on-site collaboration and travel assignments to ensure solution alignment with real-world operational requirements and constraints

Requirements

Education

Completed Master's degree in IT-related field

Experience

Minimum six years of post-graduation experience in software development, data analysis, and machine learning

Required Skills

Expert-level proficiency in Python, NumPy, Pandas, and dplyr for data manipulation and analysis Advanced knowledge of machine learning frameworks including Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and caret with comprehensive understanding of their functionalities Deep expertise in software and data architecture design and implementation Proven ability to identify, evaluate, and implement cutting-edge algorithms and models based on market research and technical literature review Strong capability in data mining and insight extraction from complex datasets Advanced decision-making skills for determining when to develop custom models versus leveraging or extending existing solutions Creative problem-solving abilities with strong implementation and execution skills Excellent teamwork and collaboration capabilities Openness to constructive feedback with pronounced hands-on mentality Proficiency in agile development processes and methodologies, particularly Scrum framework Fluent German language skills with good English proficiency
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The defense technology sector is experiencing unprecedented digital transformation driven by geopolitical tensions and the need for technological sovereignty, creating massive demand for specialized data intelligence capabilities. Organizations are investing heavily in AI and machine learning solutions to enhance operational effectiveness, predictive maintenance, and strategic decision-making processes. Government and defense contractors are prioritizing indigenous software development capabilities to reduce dependency on foreign technology providers, leading to significant investment in domestic innovation units and specialized development teams. This trend is particularly pronounced in Germany following recent security concerns and NATO modernization initiatives. The convergence of IoT, edge computing, and advanced analytics in defense applications is creating new opportunities for integrated solutions that can operate in challenging environments while maintaining security and reliability standards. This technological integration requires professionals who can bridge traditional software development with specialized defense requirements.

Role Significance

Typically leading or co-leading teams of 5-8 technical professionals including data scientists, software engineers, and DevOps specialists, while collaborating across multiple interdisciplinary teams within the broader SCHMIEDE innovation unit structure.
This is a senior technical leadership position requiring both deep technical expertise and strategic thinking capabilities. The role combines hands-on development with architectural decision-making and stakeholder management, positioning the incumbent as a key technical authority within the organization's innovation unit.

Key Projects

Development of predictive maintenance systems for military equipment using IoT sensor data and advanced analytics Implementation of real-time operational intelligence platforms for mission planning and execution support Creation of automated threat detection and response systems leveraging machine learning and behavioral analysis Design of secure data integration platforms connecting disparate defense systems while maintaining strict security protocols

Success Factors

Ability to balance cutting-edge technical innovation with the rigorous security, reliability, and compliance requirements inherent in defense applications, requiring both creative problem-solving and disciplined engineering practices. Strong stakeholder management and communication skills to effectively translate complex technical concepts into business value propositions for military end-users and government decision-makers who may have limited technical backgrounds. Continuous learning mindset and active engagement with emerging technologies and research literature, as evidenced by the emphasis on white paper consumption and market observation requirements. Cultural adaptability to work effectively within both startup-style innovation environments and traditional government/military organizational structures, requiring flexibility in communication styles and project approaches.

Market Demand

Extremely high demand driven by critical digitalization initiatives in defense sector, shortage of professionals with combined ML expertise and security clearance eligibility, and Germany's strategic focus on technological independence in defense applications.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Python ecosystem mastery (NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch) represents the foundation for all data intelligence work in this role, as these tools form the core infrastructure for data manipulation, analysis, and machine learning model development. The depth of knowledge required goes beyond basic usage to understanding performance optimization, memory management, and integration patterns necessary for production defense systems. Software and data architecture expertise is essential for designing scalable, secure, and maintainable systems that can handle the complexity and sensitivity of defense data. This includes understanding distributed systems, security patterns, and integration architectures that can operate across diverse technology stacks while maintaining strict compliance requirements. Machine learning model development and deployment capabilities are critical for delivering the core value proposition of the role, requiring not only theoretical knowledge but practical experience in model lifecycle management, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement processes in production environments.

Beneficial Skills

IoT and embedded systems knowledge would be highly valuable given the increasing integration of sensor technologies and edge computing in modern defense applications, enabling the development of more comprehensive and responsive intelligence solutions. Cloud platform expertise, particularly in hybrid and multi-cloud environments, would enhance the ability to design flexible and scalable data processing architectures that can adapt to changing security and performance requirements. Domain expertise in defense or security applications would accelerate effectiveness in the role by providing context for user requirements and operational constraints that may not be immediately apparent to professionals from purely civilian technology backgrounds.

Unique Aspects

Opportunity to work on nationally strategic projects that directly impact German defense capabilities and European security, providing exceptional purpose-driven career satisfaction and societal contribution.
Access to cutting-edge technology resources and high-security project environments that are typically unavailable in commercial settings, offering unique technical challenges and learning opportunities.
Combination of startup innovation culture with government contractor stability and benefits, providing an unusual blend of creative freedom and long-term career security.
Direct collaboration with military end-users and defense policy makers, offering insights into real-world application of technology solutions in high-stakes environments.

Career Growth

Progression to director-level positions typically achievable within 3-5 years given the specialized nature of defense data intelligence and the current market demand for experienced professionals in this sector.

Potential Next Roles

Chief Technology Officer or Head of Data Science positions within defense contractors or government agencies Technical Director roles overseeing multiple innovation teams and strategic technology initiatives Principal Architect positions focusing on enterprise-wide data platform strategy and implementation Consulting or advisory roles with defense technology firms or government digital transformation initiatives

Company Overview

BWI GmbH

BWI GmbH serves as the primary digitalization partner for the German Federal Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), operating one of Germany's largest and most complex IT infrastructures with over 7,700 employees. The company manages critical defense IT services both domestically and internationally, from basic operations to mission-critical deployment environments.

BWI holds a dominant position as the exclusive IT service provider for the Bundeswehr, representing a unique market position with substantial government backing and strategic importance to German national security infrastructure. The company's monopolistic relationship with its primary client provides exceptional stability and growth opportunities.
BWI's Essen location houses the SCHMIEDE innovation unit, positioning it as a key hub for defense technology innovation in the Ruhr metropolitan region. The location benefits from proximity to major German industrial centers while maintaining access to top-tier technical talent from regional universities and research institutions.
The SCHMIEDE unit specifically cultivates a startup-style innovation culture within the broader government contractor framework, emphasizing agile methodologies, creative problem-solving, and rapid prototyping while maintaining the security and compliance standards required for defense applications.
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