Virtual Reality Software Engineer

Motion Recruitment; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Motion Recruitment is seeking a VR/XR Software Engineer for a 1-year W2 contract in Cedar Rapids, IA. You will join a small, fast-moving R&D team building immersive aviation-focused VR experiences for customers and stakeholders.

The role emphasizes developing interactive 3D environments, integrating simulation data, and exploring XR platforms with Unity and Unreal Engine, using OpenXR and related frameworks. On-site work is required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in immersive VR/XR/AR or interactive 3D applications.
• Proficiency with Unity (C#) and/or Unreal Engine (C++/Blueprints) and Python for integration.
• Experience with XR frameworks such as OpenXR, SteamVR, Unity XR Toolkit, Meta Quest SDK.
• Familiarity with integrating software with simulation data, APIs, and backend systems.
• Authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy immersive VR environments simulating aviation flight decks and controls.
• Create interactive experiences with hand tracking, controllers, and haptic input.
• Build intuitive navigation, onboarding environments, and virtual worlds for product demos.
• Integrate simulation data, backend systems, and external applications into VR experiences.
• Evaluate new VR hardware/software platforms and XR tools; collaborate with engineering and product teams.

Skills

Unity (C#)

Unreal Engine (C++/Blueprints)

Python

OpenXR

VR/XR development

REST/WebSockets

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor's degree in CS/Software Eng or related field

Tools

Meta Quest SDK

SteamVR

Unity XR Interaction Toolkit

Job description

Our client, a leader in aerospace & defense, is looking to hire a VR/XR Software Engineer. This team operates in a startup-style R&D environment, working onsite Monday – Friday in Cedar Rapids, IA!

*This is a 1-year W2 contract opportunity with benefits!*

VR/XR Software Engineer, you will join a small, fast-moving innovation team seeking to build immersive virtual reality experiences for aerospace applications. You will help create highly interactive digital environments that allow customers, executives, and stakeholders to explore aircraft systems, flight decks, and related products without requiring physical hardware. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in an R&D setting and enjoys working at the intersection of VR development, 3D visualization, simulation, and emerging technologies!

What You'll Be Doing

• Design, develop, and deploy immersive VR environments that realistically simulate aviation flight decks, displays, controls, and related equipment


• Build interactive user experiences that allow users to operate virtual switches, touchscreens, buttons, and cockpit controls using hand tracking, controllers, and haptic input


• Develop intuitive navigation experiences, onboarding environments, and virtual worlds that guide users through complex product demonstrations


• Integrate simulation data, backend systems, and external applications to create dynamic and responsive VR experiences


• Evaluate and implement new VR hardware, software platforms, and XR tools as technologies continue to evolve


• Collaborate closely with engineering, product, and business stakeholders to rapidly prototype and iterate on new concepts

Required Skills & Experience

• 3+ years of experience developing immersive VR, XR, AR, or interactive 3D applications


• Hands-on experience with Unity (C#) and/or Unreal Engine (C++/Blueprints) and or Python for application development and integration


• Experience utilizing OpenXR, SteamVR, Unity XR Interaction Toolkit, Meta Quest SDK, or similar XR frameworks


• Familiarity integrating software with simulation platforms, APIs, networked systems, REST services, WebSockets, TCP/UDP communication, or backend systems


• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis

Desired Skills & Experience

• Associate’s or Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, Computer Engineering, or related field


• Experience working with 3D asset pipelines, including Blender, Maya, 3ds Max, Substance Painter, or similar tools


• Experience developing applications for Meta Quest, HTC Vive, Valve Index, Varjo, or other standalone and PC-tethered XR devices


• Experience integrating with flight simulation platforms such as Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane, Prepar3D, or similar simulation environments


• Experience applying AI, computer vision, image generation, or machine learning technologies within immersive, simulation, or visualization environments


• Prior experience or interest in the aerospace, aviation, defense, automotive, or simulation industries highly valued!

Motion Recruitment Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All applicants must be currently authorized to work on a full-time basis in the country for which they are applying, and no sponsorship is currently available. Employment is subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment screening. Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the hiring process as required under Motion Recruitment Employment Accommodation policy. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance.