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Team: IT
This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Senior Principal Virtual Simulation Software Engineer based in the United States.
This role sits at the intersection of advanced software engineering, real-time simulation, and mission-critical aerospace systems development. You will contribute to high-fidelity virtual environments used to model, test, and validate next-generation aircraft and tactical mission systems. Working within a specialized, collaborative engineering team, you will design and enhance simulation frameworks that replicate real-world flight dynamics, sensors, weapons, and command-and-control behaviors. The work directly supports mission planning, system evaluation, and operational readiness for complex defense applications. This is a highly technical environment where C++-driven development meets physics-based modeling and systems integration. You will collaborate closely with subject matter experts to translate real-world aeronautical concepts into executable simulation logic. The role offers exposure to cutting-edge defense technologies, a strong team culture, and meaningful impact on national security capabilities.
Accountabilities:
In this role, you will be responsible for developing, integrating, and enhancing advanced simulation software used in high-fidelity, real-time aerospace and mission systems environments.
- Design and implement real-time, pilot-in-the-loop simulation software supporting tactical aircraft evaluation and mission modeling.
- Develop and maintain simulation frameworks and modules including aircraft dynamics, sensors, weapons systems, threats, and command-and-control elements.
- Translate complex physics, aerodynamics, and operational concepts into functional software models and algorithms.
- Integrate visualization tools, GUIs, and simulation databases into cohesive mission training and evaluation environments.
- Collaborate with engineers and domain experts to validate system behavior and support trade studies for aircraft and mission configurations.
- Contribute to hardware/software integration efforts within laboratory and simulation environments.
- Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field with 8+ years of experience, or Master’s with 6+ years, or PhD with 4+ years of experience.
- Strong programming experience in C++ (preferred), C#, Java, or other object-oriented languages.
- Active U.S. Top Secret clearance required, with eligibility for Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
- Experience developing or working with real-time simulation systems or complex engineering software.
- Strong understanding of physics-based modeling, aerodynamics, sensors, weapons, or aerospace systems is highly desirable.
- Ability to translate mathematical and physical models into efficient, real-time simulation code.
- Experience working in cross-functional, multidisciplinary engineering teams.
- Strong communication skills and ability to contribute to technical design discussions.
- Competitive salary ranging from $122,800 to $184,200 USD depending on experience and qualifications
- Annual performance bonus and discretionary incentive opportunities
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contributions
- Paid time off, holidays, and flexible work arrangements (including 9/80 schedule options)
- Relocation assistance may be available depending on eligibility
- Exposure to advanced aerospace simulation and defense technology programs
- Strong culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous technical development.
Requirements:
The ideal candidate brings deep software engineering expertise combined with strong experience in simulation, modeling, and mission-level systems development.
Benefits:
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