Lead Forward Deployed Engineer - Palantir (Architecture)
Lead FDE / Foundry ArchitectPermanent | Washington DC (SCIF) | US Government Programme | Supported by MorelaThe OpportunityMorela is supporting a confidential Palantir partner in identifying a Lead Forward Deployed Engineer and Foundry Architect for a high-impact, permanent engagement supporting a programme within the American Government.Morela is supporting a confidential Palantir partner in identifying a Lead Forward Deployed Engineer and Foundry Architect for a high-impact, permanent engagement supporting a programme within the American Government.At a GlanceEngagement Type: PermanentLocation: Washington DC - SCIF environmentSecurity Clearance: Secret clearance requiredEnd Client: Confidential - part of the American GovernmentPalantir Partner: ConfidentialStart Date: Early July 2026 (potentially sooner)The OpportunityThis is one of the most senior and consequential Palantir roles currently available in the US market. You will lead the technical architecture of a Foundry deployment that sits at the heart of a critical government programme, working alongside a dedicated engineering team and shaping how the platform is built, scaled, and adopted.The end client operates within a SCIF environment in Washington DC. Secret clearance is a firm requirement. Ex-Palantir candidates are strongly preferred for this role.What You Will Be DoingLeading the end-to-end Foundry architecture for a large-scale US Government programmeDefining technical strategy, design patterns, and best practices across the deploymentActing as the most senior technical voice in client-facing discussions and stakeholder engagementsMentoring and directing a team of Foundry engineers across senior and junior levelsOwning the full lifecycle from initial scoping through to production deployment and iterationBridging the gap between Palantir's platform capabilities and the client's operational requirementsFeeding insight back into the wider Palantir partner organisation to improve delivery standardsWhat You Will NeedEx-Palantir background - this is a strong preference for this roleDeep hands-on experience with Palantir Foundry - Ontology, Pipeline Builder, Workshop, AIPA proven track record leading Foundry deployments at enterprise or government scaleExperience managing and mentoring engineering teams in a delivery environmentActive Secret clearance - this is a firm and non-negotiable requirementComfortable operating within a SCIF environment in Washington DCExceptional stakeholder management - you will engage at senior levels within a government programmeBonus PointsExperience with US defence or intelligence community programmesFamiliarity with AIP agent development and production deploymentPrior experience in a Palantir partner or consultancy environmentWhy This RoleThis is a rare opportunity to lead a Palantir deployment that genuinely matters. The programme is significant, the team is serious, and the scope for technical ownership is substantial. For an experienced FDE or Foundry Architect looking for their next major challenge, this is it.How to ApplyThis search is being supported by Morela. Both the Palantir partner and end client are confidential and will be disclosed to suitable candidates at the appropriate stage. To be considered, please contact the Morela team directly.Morela - Specialist AI & Palantir Recruitmentwww.morela.co.uk