Simulation Software Engineer

Holt Executive; England; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space engineering firm in the UK seeks a Simulation Software Engineer to develop high-fidelity spacecraft simulators for mission design. This role involves working with aerospace engineers to build simulation tools and ensure simulator performance. Essential qualifications include a degree in a relevant field and 2+ years of software engineering experience, particularly in C++. The position offers flexible working arrangements along with 25 days of annual leave and a collaborative company culture.

Benefits

Flexible working around core hours

25 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays

Private healthcare

Relocation allowance

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in software engineering or real-time software development.
• Experience in modelling/simulation is preferable.
• Strong understanding of UML and design patterns.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and test spacecraft simulators.
• Develop and integrate simulation software.
• Maintain simulator performance and availability.

Skills

Debugging and profiling on Linux

Proficiency in modern C++ (C++14 or later)

Object-oriented programming

Experience in real-time software development

Education

Degree in Computer Science, Electronics, or relevant STEM discipline

Job description

A growing space engineering team in the UK is seeking a Simulation Software Engineer to support the development of high-fidelity spacecraft simulators used for mission design, verification, and operations. You’ll work alongside software and aerospace engineers to develop simulation tools, integrate flight software, and ensure robust, reliable simulator performance for upcoming spacecraft missions.

What You’ll Do

• Design, implement, and test spacecraft simulators as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team
• Develop and integrate simulation software aligned with mission and subsystem requirements
• Validate, configure, and deploy simulator builds into operational environments
• Create scripts based on operational scenarios to support testing and training
• Maintain simulator performance and availability for engineering and operational users
• Develop startup and configuration scripts for different operational modes and system setups

Essential Skills

• Degree in Computer Science, Electronics, or another relevant STEM discipline
• 2+ years of experience in software engineering or real-time software development, ideally within modelling / simulation
• Strong debugging and profiling experience on Linux
• Proficiency in modern C++ (C++14 or later)
• Solid understanding of object‑oriented programming, UML, and design patterns
• Experience with test‑driven development

Desirable Skills

• Experience with ECSS SMP, SIMULUS Suite, or other spacecraft simulation frameworks
• Familiarity with Agile development tools and methodologies
• Knowledge of ECSS‑E‑70 (PUS) and SCOS MIB
• Linux system administration, shell scripting, Makefiles
• JavaScript scripting experience

What’s on Offer

• Opportunity to work with a highly talented, international engineering team
• Flexible working around core hours in a supportive, collaborative environment
• Optional 9 / 75 working pattern
• Hybrid working arrangements (role‑dependent)
• 25 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays (increasing with tenure)
• Private healthcare (taxable benefit), life insurance, long‑term sick pay
• Relocation allowance and potential visa sponsorship
• Access to modern office and cleanroom facilities
• Regular social events and a positive team culture