We are supporting a flight simulation and pilot training initiative focused on high-fidelity mission visualization and real-time simulation environments.
This role is for a software engineer specializing in Unreal Engine (C++), not a designer or artist. The developer will be responsible for implementing core simulation logic, system integrations, and real-time application functionality to support training, sensor visualization, and mission scenarios.
Key Responsibilities
Unreal Engine Development (C++ Focus)
- Develop and implement application logic using Unreal Engine with C++ (not Blueprint-only)
- Load and manage DLC/plugins containing large 3D asset libraries (aircraft, naval systems, civilian models, etc.)
- Optimize and manage rendering of large-scale environments and dynamic assets
- Implement level-of-detail logic (e.g., converting MASS entities to full actors based on range/visibility)
Simulation & Systems Integration
- Implement and integrate simulation protocols including:
- DIS (Distributed Interactive Simulation)
- CIGI (Common Image Generator Interface)
- OMS (Open Mission Systems)
- Use protocol inputs to drive:
- Actor positioning
- Animation triggers
- Real-time simulation behavior
- Support proof-of-concepts and production implementations for simulation interoperability
User Interface & Data Visualization
- Develop UI components to support:
- Sensor data visualization
- Lat/Lon grid overlays on 3D globe environments
- User selections and highlighting
- Implement multiple camera modes (e.g., cinematic, tracking, cockpit perspectives)
- Build integrations to:
- Export simulation data to external data science platforms
- Consume input from external remote control/configuration systems
Networking & Multiplayer Systems
- Implement Unreal Engine networking features:
- Multiplayer replication
- State synchronization across multiple simulation instances
- Support real-time, synchronized simulation environments (e.g., multi-cockpit scenarios)
Simulation Features & Enhancements
- Contribute to development of advanced simulation capabilities including:
- Photogrammetry-based environments and 3D terrain (Cesium)
- Building and infrastructure data integration
- IR (infrared) sensor simulation and dynamic material responses
- SAR (synthetic aperture radar) simulation
- Weather systems and synchronized multi-environment conditions
- Time-of-day and control integrations (e.g., HOTAS via CIGI)
- Enhance realism and fidelity (lighting, shadows, materials, environmental effects)
Required Qualifications
- 3+ years of hands-on experience with Unreal Engine development using C++
- Strong proficiency in C++ programming
- Experience building interactive, real-time 3D applications
- Understanding of:
- Game engine architecture
- Actor systems and scene management
- Performance optimization in real-time environments
- Ability to work as a software engineer (not a 3D artist or designer)
Preferred / Differentiating Experience
- Experience with simulation standards:
- DIS, CIGI, OMS (or similar)
- Background in:
- Aerospace, defense, or simulation environments
- Real-time data integration or visualization
- Familiarity with:
- Unreal networking and multiplayer systems
- Sensor simulation or physics-based modeling
- Large-scale geospatial environments (Cesium, GIS, etc.)
What We Are NOT Looking For
- Blueprint-only Unreal developers without strong C++ experience
- Virtual production / film / green-screen backgrounds
- 3D artists, character modelers, or purely visual designers
Success Profile
The ideal candidate is a true software engineer who:
- Writes production-grade C++ in Unreal
- Understands real-time systems and simulation
- Can integrate external data and protocols into a live environment
- Is comfortable working in a complex, engineering-driven simulation ecosystem
Pay: $90.00 - $100.00 per hour
Experience:
- Unreal Engine: 4 years (Required)
- C++: 8 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- St. Louis, MO 63177 (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in St. Louis, MO 63177
