At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of cutting-edge software solutions in defence.
- Company: Fast-growing consultancy at the forefront of defence technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, generous holiday, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with excellent career growth and technical development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on groundbreaking projects while mentoring future tech leaders.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in high-performance software with strong C++ and Unreal Engine skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 85000 £ per year.
Portsmouth | Hybrid, 3 days onsite
£75,000-£85,000 plus bonus and benefits
Want to work on groundbreaking projects within the defence industry? Are you a hands-on technical leader with strong C++ and Unreal Engine expertise and want to work at the forefront of complex, performance-critical software delivery within defence?
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 in the defence industry. 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% 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++ / Unreal / Defence in Portsmouth employer: Talent Locker
Join a dynamic and innovative software and data science consultancy in Portsmouth, where you'll be at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge solutions in the defence industry. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, our collaborative work culture fosters technical leadership and mentorship, ensuring you thrive while working on impactful projects. Enjoy competitive benefits, including a generous pension contribution, private healthcare, and flexible holiday options, all within a hybrid working environment that values your expertise and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer C++ / Unreal / Defence in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the defence industry. Attend meetups, conferences, or even online webinars. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your C++ and Unreal Engine projects. Whether it's a GitHub repo or a personal website, having tangible examples of your work can really set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research common technical questions related to software engineering and defence systems. Practise explaining your thought process clearly, as communication is key when you're leading teams and making technical decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us. Tailor your application to highlight your leadership experience and technical expertise, and don’t forget to follow up after applying to show your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer C++ / Unreal / Defence in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your C++ and Unreal Engine expertise. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your technical leadership and any relevant projects you've worked on.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working in the defence industry and how your skills can contribute to our groundbreaking projects. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, highlight specific examples where you've applied mathematical and computational techniques to solve real-world problems. We love seeing how you tackle challenges head-on!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Locker
✨Know Your C++ and Unreal Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your C++ and Unreal Engine skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This is your chance to showcase your hands-on expertise!
✨Demonstrate Technical Leadership
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and making key technical decisions. Think about how you've mentored others and driven projects forward. Companies want to see that you can not only lead but also inspire and elevate your team.
✨Understand the Defence Industry
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the defence sector, especially around simulation and autonomy. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these topics will show that you're genuinely interested and invested in the role.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Think about how you've managed relationships with customers and stakeholders in the past. Be prepared to discuss your communication style and how you ensure everyone is aligned on project goals. This is crucial for a principal-level role!
