Freelance Writer

Outlier AI; Newcastle upon Tyne; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in the UK is looking for a skilled engineer to optimize game and simulation engines. This role involves designing robust systems with C++, Python, and Lua, leading projects, and mentoring junior team members. Candidates must have experience with game engines and strong communication skills. The position offers a hybrid work model and includes generous benefits such as a competitive pension and mental health support.

Benefits

Generous leave

Award-winning pension scheme

Mental health support

Bonus scheme

Online course access

Referral programme

Flexible benefits

Hybrid working options

Qualifications

• Proven experience with commercial game engines (Unreal, Unity, or similar).
• Strong understanding of engine exploitation and optimization.
• Experience with rapid prototyping and iterative design.

Responsibilities

• Lead engine-driven projects from concept to delivery.
• Design and implement systems using C++, Python, and Lua.
• Mentor junior engineers and document processes.

Skills

Game development expertise

C++

Python

Lua scripting

Stakeholder management

Education

Degree in a STEM field

Job 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.

What We’re Looking For

• 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 – 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 Master’s 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.

What You Will Do

• 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.
• Participate in stakeholder meetings and translate user needs into technical requirements.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government's Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). All successful applicants must be eligible for full security clearance and access to UK‑controlled and ITAR‑controlled information.

Benefits

• Generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
• Award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Bonus scheme eligible for all employees at management level and below.
• Free access to over 4,000 online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Referral programme with financial rewards.
• Flexible benefits up to £500 annually on private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships, and more.
• Flexible hours with hybrid working options; part‑time opportunities available.

Location: Edinburgh, UK (Primary location) with additional location in Newcastle.

Contract: Permanent, Hybrid Working.