Principal Systems Engineer

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Join a fast-moving, outcome-driven engineering team that builds high-quality simulations and Real Time experiences using commercial and proprietary game engines. You'll shape how we exploit, extend, and integrate engines to solve complex systems problems, influence product roadmaps, and mentor engineers across disciplines. If you love squeezing performance from engines, building robust pipelines, and turning prototypes into production-grade systems, this role is for you.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED

Must Have

• Proven experience as a game developer, engine engineer, or simulation engineer working with commercial game engines (Unreal, Unity, or similar).
• Good C++ skills and practical experience with Python and Lua Scripting.
• Demonstrable track record of engine exploitation: profiling, optimization, custom module/plugin development, and toolchain integration.
• Systems thinking: you design solutions that consider performance, maintainability, and operational constraints.
• Experience with rapid prototyping, iterative design, and stakeholder-driven development.
• Strong stakeholder management and the ability to translate user needs into technical requirements.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.

Desirable

• Degree in a STEM field, ideally to Masters level.
• Experience with animation pipelines, 3D modelling, or content creation workflows.
• Familiarity with HLA, DIS, or other simulation interoperability standards.
• Background in UX/HMI design or human-in-the-loop simulation.
• Prior experience working on security-cleared or regulated projects.

TASKS REQUIRED

• Lead engine-driven projects from concept through delivery, building demos, bespoke tools, and integrated simulations.
• Exploit and extend game and simulation engines to meet performance, quality, and interoperability goals.
• Design and implement robust systems using C++, Python, and Lua to automate workflows and integrate third-party tools.
• Drive engine maintenance and optimisation, including profiling, memory and CPU tuning, and platform-specific improvements.
• Collaborate across disciplines with systems engineers, software teams, Human Factors designers, and IT to deliver cohesive solutions.
• Rapidly prototype and iterate, turning experimental ideas into validated features and production-ready components.
• Mentor and document: capture knowledge, run workshops, and support junior engineers to raise team capability.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• Demonstrations
• Engine improvements and plugins
• Regular knowledge capture, management and sharing activities
• Upskilling of others
• Mentoring of junior staff

Based in Edinburgh with 90% on site