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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: Make a real impact in simulation and autonomy-focused projects while mentoring future tech leaders.
- Qualifications: 15+ years of experience in high-performance software and strong C++/Unreal Engine skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for technical development and 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++ / Unreal Engine) employer: Talent Locker
Contact Detail:
Talent Locker Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Software Engineer (C++ / Unreal Engine)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work with C++ and Unreal Engine. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving simulation and autonomy. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can do and set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your C++ and Unreal Engine knowledge. Practice coding challenges and be ready to discuss your past projects in detail. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Software Engineer (C++ / Unreal Engine)
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 the perfect fit for this Principal Software Engineer role. Share your passion for simulation-driven systems and how you’ve led teams in the past.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Locker
✨Know Your Tech 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 will show your hands-on expertise and technical authority.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Software Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams and make key technical decisions. Prepare examples of how you've mentored others or led projects in the past. Highlight your experience in managing stakeholders and building trusted relationships.
✨Understand the Business Context
Familiarise yourself with the company's focus areas like defence, energy, and transport. Be prepared to discuss how your technical skills can contribute to their high-impact programmes. Showing that you understand their business will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect to tackle some real-world problems during the interview. Brush up on mathematical and computational techniques relevant to simulation and autonomy. Practice articulating your thought process clearly, as this will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to solve complex issues.
