(Senior) Simulation Software Engineer – Unreal Engine & AI Autonomy (d/m/w)

About

To shape the future of autonomous systems, Airbus is combining its strengths in Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy. For this purpose, we are establishing a new, agile competence and development center at the traditional technology site of Tesat in Backnang. In this environment, which combines decades of expertise in space technology with the dynamics of a start-up, we are developing the next generation of AI-powered defense and dual-use applications.

Your Role

As a (Senior) Simulation Software Engineer – Unreal Engine & AI Autonomy (d/f/m), you will be a key architect of our "Data Engine." You will enable AI training on a massive scale and prepare our systems for extreme operating conditions.

You will bridge the gap between virtual worlds and reality: while at the senior level you will be responsible for the technological architecture and strategic planning of the system landscape, at the professional level you will drive hands-on development and implementation. Together, you will create scalable environments where our AI agents can safely learn and perfect autonomous flight behavior.

Your Benefits

• The unique opportunity to shape the future of autonomous systems at a world-leading aerospace company
• An inspiring work environment that combines the innovative power of a startup with the expertise of an established technology site
• A team of brilliant minds working together on a grand vision for Europe's technological sovereignty
• An attractive salary, flexible working hours, and excellent opportunities for professional development within the Airbus Group

Your Tasks

• Digital Clone Development: You will lead the architecture (Senior) or support the development (Professional) of highly precise virtual replicas of our flight systems and mission environments using AirSim and Unreal Engine.
• Training Environments for RL: You will design and maintain extremely scalable simulation infrastructures where AI agents learn autonomous flight behavior through Reinforcement Learning.
• Sim-to-Real Alignment: You will ensure realistic physics by validating simulation results with real flight data, taking responsibility for the overall strategy (Senior) or actively participating in the fine-tuning (Professional) of sensor noise and environmental parameters.
• Visualization: You will create and optimize graphical representations of flight paths, target tracking, and swarm telemetry for integration into ground stations (GCS).
• Synthetic Data Generation (SDG): You will orchestrate the generation of massive datasets – from extreme weather to camouflage scenarios – to compensate for the lack of real flight data from conflict zones.
• Electronic Warfare (EW) Simulation: You will design and implement virtual scenarios for GPS spoofing and connection losses to maximize AI resilience against enemy countermeasures.

Your Profile

• Successfully completed studies in Computer Science, Game Engine Development, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related field (ideally with a Master's or PhD for the Senior position).
• Professional Level: Initial practical experience or sound academic knowledge in simulation frameworks and 3D rendering engines (preferably Unreal Engine or AirSim).
• Senior Level: Relevant, multi-year professional experience with simulation frameworks and rendering engines, particularly with Unreal Engine and AirSim, as well as proven success in implementing complex technical architectures or technical leadership in a fast-paced technological environment.
• Deep understanding (or strong interest) in 3D physics engines, sensor simulation (EO/IR), and data pipelines for Machine Learning.
• Sound knowledge of C++ and Python for developing simulation functions, customizing engines, and integrating into CI/CD pipelines.
• Fluent in German and English

We are looking for talent at various career levels. The specific classification will be based on your individual experience.

Not a 100% match? No problem! Airbus supports your personal growth with tailor-made development solutions. We hire based on potential and experience.

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company: Airbus Defence and Space GmbH

Employment Type: Permanent

Experience Level: Professional

Job Family: Research and Technology

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