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- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of complex software solutions using C++ and Unreal Engine.
- Company: Fast-growing software and data science consultancy with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, generous holiday, and pension contributions.
- Why this job: Shape the future of simulation-driven systems and work on high-impact projects.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in high-performance software with strong C++ and Unreal Engine skills.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities and a dynamic environment for career growth.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 85000 £ per year.
This Principal Software Engineer role is designed for a hands-on technical leader with strong C++ and Unreal Engine expertise, working at the forefront of complex, performance-critical software delivery. The role combines advanced engineering with genuine technical authority, shaping how simulation-driven and autonomy-focused systems are designed, built and evolved.
The position sits within a fast-growing software and data science consultancy delivering end-to-end solutions across defence, energy, transport and health. You will work closely with subject matter experts and senior stakeholders on high-impact programmes spanning modelling and simulation, autonomy, geospatial systems, synthetic environments and digital twins.
This is a true principal-level role. You will remain deeply technical while setting direction, leading teams and acting as the technical authority across projects.
What you will be doing:
- Leading the design and delivery of complex software solutions using C++ and Unreal Engine
- Acting as technical lead across modelling and simulation, wargaming and autonomous systems
- Applying mathematical and computational techniques to solve real-world problems
- Owning key technical decisions across architecture, tooling and performance
- Mentoring engineers and enabling high-performing delivery teams
- Delivering technical consultancy engagements and leading selected projects
- Building trusted relationships with customers and stakeholders
- Supporting bids, proposals and technical reporting
What you will bring:
- Extensive experience, typically 15+ years, delivering high-performance software
- Proven technical leadership at Principal or Technical Lead level
- Strong hands-on expertise in C++ and Unreal Engine
- Background in simulation, autonomy, robotics or game-engine-driven environments
- Experience working with large, complex codebases and performance constraints
- Strong stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills
What's on offer:
- Salary up to £85,000, flexible for exceptional technical leaders
- 7 percent employer pension contribution
- Vitality private healthcare
- 25 days holiday with the option to buy or sell additional days
- Life assurance
- EV salary sacrifice scheme
- Discretionary bonus linked to company performance
- Structured mentoring and ongoing technical development
Principal Software Engineer (C++) in Portsmouth employer: Talent Locker
Contact Detail:
Talent Locker Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer (C++) in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who might know about opportunities at companies you're interested in. A personal recommendation can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your C++ and Unreal Engine skills. Practice coding challenges and be ready to discuss your past projects in detail. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Talk about how you've mentored others and led teams in previous roles. This is key for a Principal Software Engineer position, so let us see your authority in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer (C++) in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Keep Your CV Fresh: Make sure your CV is up to date and tailored for the Principal Software Engineer role. Highlight your C++ and Unreal Engine expertise, as well as any relevant experience in simulation and autonomy.
Read the Job Specs Carefully: Before applying, take a good look at the job description. Understanding what we’re looking for will help you align your skills and experiences with our needs, making your application stand out.
Showcase Your Technical Leadership: Since this is a principal-level role, emphasise your technical leadership experience. Share examples of how you've led teams and made key architectural decisions in past projects.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to hit 'Apply' on our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Locker
✨Know Your C++ Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your C++ skills before the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've used C++, especially in performance-critical environments. They’ll likely want to hear about your hands-on experience with Unreal Engine too, so have some examples ready.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your technical leadership. Think of instances where you've led teams or made key architectural decisions. Be ready to explain how you mentored others and drove high-performance delivery.
✨Understand the Business Context
Familiarise yourself with the sectors they operate in, like defence, energy, and transport. Showing that you understand the impact of simulation-driven systems in these areas will set you apart. Prepare to discuss how your technical expertise can solve real-world problems in these fields.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with stakeholders, practice your communication skills. Think about how you can build trusted relationships and influence decisions. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed stakeholder expectations in past projects.
