Senior Software Engineer (C++ / Unreal Engine)

The Talent Locker Ltd.; Portsmouth; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A software and data science consultancy seeks a Senior Software Engineer in Portsmouth. The ideal candidate will design and develop performance-focused software solutions in modelling, simulation, and autonomy. Responsibilities include ensuring robust systems, engaging with stakeholders, and leading projects. Requirements include extensive experience with C++, Unreal Engine, and strong communication skills. Benefits include health insurance, pension contribution, and structured training opportunities within a hybrid work model.

Benefits

7% employer pension contribution

Private healthcare

25 days holiday

Structured mentoring and training opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in software development focusing on performance.
• Proficient in C, C++, or C# and Python.
• Experience managing large codebases and performance issues.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver software for modelling and simulation.
• Utilize technologies in wargaming and autonomous systems.
• Shape requirements through analysis of use cases.
• Engage with customers for technical consultancy projects.

Skills

C++

C

Python

Unreal Engine

Robotic systems

Autonomous systems

Strong communication skills

Education

Degree-level education in STEM or computing

Job description

Senior Software Engineer
Portsmouth | Hybrid, 3 days onsite
£50,000–£75,000 plus bonus and benefits

This Senior Software Engineer role is ideal for a hands‑on engineer with experience in C++ and Unreal Engine, working on complex, performance‑critical software across modelling and simulation, autonomy and geospatial domains. The position focuses on building robust, scalable systems while offering clear progression towards technical leadership.

The role sits within a growing software and data science consultancy delivering end‑to‑end solutions across defence, energy, transport and health. You will work alongside experienced engineers, data scientists and subject matter experts on programmes covering modelling and simulation, autonomous systems, synthetic environments and digital twins.

You will stay close to the code while contributing ideas, shaping solutions and engaging directly with customers.

What you will be doing

• Designing, developing and delivering software solutions across modelling and simulation, autonomy and geospatial domains
• Working with technologies including wargaming, robotic and autonomous systems, digital twins and synthetic environments
• Applying mathematical and computational methods to solve real-world problems
• Contributing to technical consultancy projects, with opportunities to lead defined work packages
• Analysing use cases and project context to shape requirements and specifications
• Working across existing codebases and contributing to performance‑critical systems
• Building and maintaining effective customer and stakeholder relationships
• Supporting technical reporting and presenting work to customers

What you will bring

• At least 5 years’ experience designing and delivering performant software applications
• Proficiency in C, C++ or C# alongside Python
• Experience with Unreal Engine or similar game‑engine technology
• Understanding of software modelling and simulation techniques
• Experience in areas such as entity or event‑based simulation, robotics or autonomous systems
• Confidence working with large codebases and understanding performance and hardware constraints
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work directly with stakeholders

Desirable

• Experience within UK defence or other regulated environments
• Degree‑level education or equivalent experience with a strong STEM or computing background

Location, security and working pattern

• Hybrid working with 3 days per week onsite in Portsmouth
• Willingness to travel within the UK and work at client sites when required
• Right to live and work in the UK
• Eligible and willing to obtain SC security clearance, normally requiring 5 years UK residency

What’s on offer

• Salary from £50,000, flexible based on experience
• 7 percent employer pension contribution
• Private healthcare and life assurance
• 25 days holiday with additional holiday purchase options
• EV salary sacrifice scheme
• Structured mentoring and internal and external training opportunities