Job Description

WHAT IS ON OFFER

Alfred H Knight has an exciting opportunity for a Software Engineer to join our growing IT – Software Engineering Team, based at our Head Office in Prescot, Liverpool.

This is a unique chance for a driven professional to look beyond just coding; we want someone who can see the "bigger picture," focusing on design, inter connectivity, and the implementation of AI-driven automation. You will be instrumental in developing systems that meet the continuing needs of the global Alfred H Knight group.

ABOUT US

Alfred H Knight is a totally independent, family owned business spanning five generations. A global network of strategically placed offices and laboratories enable global trade by providing independent inspection, analysis and consultancy services to the metals and minerals, solid fuels and agriculture industries.

We have honed and carefully crafted our reputation. Delivering knowledge and professionalism in all aspects of weighing, sampling and analysis. We thrive by continuing to re-invest in our facilities, technology and people. Click here to find out more about AHK.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?

To be successful at Alfred H Knight you will need to display the following:

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND WORK EXPERIENCE

Essential

• AI Prompt Literacy: Demonstrable skills in chain-of-thought prompting to solve complex coding problems.
• AI-Native Development: Knowledge of AI pair-programming tools such as Claude and Codex to accelerate software development.
• Technical Proficiency: Solid of knowledge in Java, SQL, and Git.
• Modern Workflows: Experience with AI-native IDEs and the use of custom scripts or AI agents to automate tasks like unit test generation and PR summarisation.
• System Design: Deep understanding of software design patterns and architectures.

Required Competencies

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to decompose high-level business requirements into structured technical prompts.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills with the ability to "talk the right language" regarding AI and technical design.
• Problem Solving: Proven ability to investigate, analyse, and document defects, as well as resolve "crisis situations".
• Collaboration: A strong team player who is eager to share skills and successful methods with the wider team.
• Attention to Detail: Good attention to detail in writing and auditing high-performance code.

Required Work Experience

• Experience in writing and auditing code with and without AI assistance.
• Experience in the creation and implementation of automated unit and integration tests.
• Experience providing 2nd and 3rd line support for internal systems.
• Experience in VCS administration and maintaining technical documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Relevant degree or equivalent in Software Engineering or a related technical field would be advantageous.

BENEFITS

We are offering an excellent opportunity with a salary and benefits package to match including pension, life assurance and an employee assistance programme.

If you are invited to interview, please let us know if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to the recruitment process that will enable you to perform to the best of your ability.

Alfred H Knight is committed to creating a diverse & inclusive environment and hence welcomes applications from all sections of the community.