UK - Simulation & Modelling Engineer – Autonomous Systems

Job Title: Simulation & Modelling Engineer Reports to: Head of Engineering Location: Bristol (hybrid) Type: Full time - permanent Security Clearance requirement: Applicants must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC). Role Overview We are looking for a Simulation & Modelling Engineer to develop and maintain simulation tools supporting the development of an advanced Interceptor UAV system. The role will focus on creating representative models and virtual environments to support GNC, AI/ML perception and overall system performance assessment, reducing reliance on physical testing and accelerating design iteration. Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain UAV simulation models, including vehicle dynamics, sensors and key environmental effects. ​Develop simulation environments to test GNC algorithms and AI/ML-based image processing using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Unreal Engine or equivalent. ​Create representative mission scenarios and synthetic sensor inputs for algorithm development and testing. Develop and run Monte Carlo simulations across different operating conditions, uncertainties and system parameters. Analyse simulation results to identify performance limitations, sensitivities and opportunities for design improvement. Support Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) and system integration testing. ​Correlate simulation results with ground and flight-test data to improve model accuracy. ​Work closely with GNC, AI/ML, Systems and Flight Test engineers to support UAV development and verification. Required Experience ​Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics or a related discipline. Experience developing dynamic system simulations, ideally for UAVs, aerospace, robotics or autonomous systems. Strong experience with MATLAB/Simulink and/or Python. Understanding of flight dynamics, control systems and numerical modelling. Experience with Monte Carlo simulation, sensitivity analysis or performance modelling. ​Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Applicants must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC) due to the nature of the work and projects involved. Preferred Skills Experience with Unreal Engine, AirSim, Gazebo or similar simulation environments. Experience supporting development of autonomous systems. ​Familiarity with AI/ML-based computer vision and synthetic image generation. Experience with SIL/HIL testing or integration of flight software/autopilots. ​Experience analysing or correlating models against flight-test data. Attributes & Mindset Analytical, practical and comfortable solving complex technical problems. Able to balance simulation fidelity with development speed and engineering need. ​Comfortable working across software, modelling and physical-system behaviour. Proactive and collaborative Comfortable working with multiple engineering disciplines in a small tight-knit team. Curious and data-driven, with a focus on using simulation to improve real-world system performance. Adaptable & Resilient: Stay calm and focused under pressure, maintaining a positive attitude that motivates others, adapting approach as challenges arise. Comfortable working with multiple engineering disciplines in a small tight-knit team. ​ We believe in the value of working together in person and expect team members to be office-based for the majority of the working week. At the same time, we take a flexible pragmatic approach to working patterns, including start and finish times and remote working, to support a healthy work-life balance while meeting the needs of the team and project. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to contribute and succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are focused on creating a working environment where different perspectives, experiences and ideas are valued