Simulation Engineer

ABOUT THE TEAM

Mission Simulation is STARK’s digital proving ground — the tactical environment where our entire ecosystem of UAVs, surface vessels, and EW systems converges. The Mission Simulation team is a small, specialized group based in Munich, working closely with our platform and C2 teams to integrate all multi-domain assets into high-fidelity, Software-in-the-Loop simulators. We move fast, ship realistic environments, and build for three core purposes: rigorous testing, high-stakes demos, and tactical training. There is no room for gamification. We simulate the reality of combat — from complex swarm logic to EW degradation — ensuring that developers can fail fast, and real soldiers can train safely before hitting the battlefield.

YOUR MISSION

Use mission simulations to strengthen our software and systems by assembling and maintaining critical software components, validating behaviours in simulated environments, and creating realistic training scenarios within our Mission Simulation Software.

WHAT YOU WILL DO AT STARK

• C++ Plugin Development: Writing and maintaining C++ plugins using the VBS4 SDK to extend functionality and automate complex scenario generation.
• Battle space & Mission Creation: Designing and configuring diverse virtual battlespaces and tactical missions within VBS4 to expose AI models and trainees to a wide range of terrains and edge-case scenarios.
• AI-Driven Entity Behavior: Developing reactive simulation logic (entities that respond intelligently to AI or human actions) to create realistic and challenging training environments.
• Requirements Challenging: Critically evaluating requested simulation features to ensure they provide actual training/data value rather than adding unnecessary technical overhead.
• Perform central mission simulations incorporating whole software pipeline.
• Integrating software components and modules into Mission Simulation Software.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends, recommending and implementing innovations to improve our products and processes.
• Dive deep into the details to identify, understand, and solve difficult technical problems.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE MISSION

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 3-5 years of experience (including 2 years for exceptional candidates with strong C++ and/or simulation backgrounds - ideally VBS4).
• API experience to connect software components / modules in VBS
• Strong programming skills in C/C++.
• Experience with VBS4 or comparable simulation engines (Unreal, Unity, etc.).
• Fundamental understanding of AI data requirements and synthetic data workflows.
• Basic knowledge of computer vision concepts.
• Familiarity with military operations, mission structures, or tactical environments.
• Ability to deliver solutions primarily for the Perception & AI team, with future expansion to other teams.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of complex simulation tasks.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a structured approach to debugging.

NICE TO HAVE

• Prior experience as a Field Service Representative in the defense sector or familiarity with military training environments.
• Practical knowledge of professional simulation engines (e.g., VBS4, Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Fluent English and German, preferably at C1/C2 level or above.
• A “challenger mindset” — questioning requirements to ensure technical and operational value.