# Senior Staff Engineer, Modelling and Simulation

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Melbourne, Australia
**Role:** Backend Engineering
**Experience:** 7+ years
**Skills:** C++, Python, Docker, Kubernetes, Linux, Afsim, Ngts, CI/CD, Test-Driven Development, Distributed Systems, Real-Time Simulation, Systems Integration, Hwil/Swil, Simulation Tooling, Automated Testing
**Posted:** 2026-06-01

> Leads architecture, implementation, and operationalisation of high-performance distributed simulation systems for uncrewed aircraft mission autonomy. The role requires senior technical leadership, modern C++, Python, real-time simulation, containerisation, Linux, and systems integration experience.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Lead the architecture, design, and evolution of distributed, real-time simulation systems across virtual, constructive, and live environments.
- Architect and implement high-performance C++ software for modelling, simulation, integration workflows, and system interoperability, including compatibility with legacy standards.
- Develop and optimise real-time and distributed simulation software supporting multi-agent scenarios, high-fidelity environments, and system-of-systems simulations.
- Integrate defence simulation frameworks such as AFSIM or NGTS to accelerate delivery and align with defence customer expectations.
- Design and deliver containerised simulation deployments using Docker and Kubernetes for development, CI, testing, and operational environments.
- Provide technical and project leadership to engineering teams of 5+ contributors across software, autonomy, perception, test, and program functions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to connect simulation with autonomy algorithms, hardware interfaces, and automated test pipelines.
- Drive innovation and continuous improvement in CI/CD, test-driven development, software architecture, and simulation tooling.
- Support customer programs by delivering robust, validated, and scalable simulation environments.

## Requirements
- Tertiary qualification in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
- Extensive professional experience in software engineering and systems integration.
- Strong experience with modern C++ and familiarity with legacy C++ standards.
- Professional experience with Python.
- Demonstrated success delivering reliable software in fast-paced engineering environments.
- Experience leading teams delivering complex engineering or software projects.
- Hands-on experience with real-time, distributed simulation systems or HWIL/SWIL environments.
- Experience with Docker or similar containerisation technologies.
- Proficiency working in Linux development environments.
- Strong problem-solving capability and ability to work through complex technical challenges.
- Strong history of collaboration, accountability, and effective teamwork.
- Ability to obtain an Australian NV1 security clearance.

## Nice-to-haves
- Defence industry experience.
- Experience with uncrewed systems, particularly in the air domain.
- Experience with AFSIM, NGTS, or similar defence simulation environments.
- Experience with data processing, analysis pipelines, or test automation workflows, especially Python-based.

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