Software Engineer, AI Engineer (Applied​/Software)

Our client, a leading technology company in the Defence & Security sector, is currently seeking a talented Software Engineer to join their innovative team on a permanent basis. This role is based at Portsdown Technology Park in Portsmouth and offers the exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge immersive training solutions and simulations.

Key Responsibilities:

Build and maintain prototypes, proof-of-concept systems, and technical demonstrators Take early-stage feasibility prototypes forward into working implementations, validating technical assumptions and documenting findings Implement integrations between AI services, APIs, backend systems, XR applications, simulation environments, and third-party platforms Develop microservices, wrappers, connectors, and service interfaces to support solution components Support applied AI development including LLM services, speech services, classification models, RAG pipelines, and AI-enabled application features Prepare and maintain demo-ready technical builds for internal and customer-facing demonstrations Support the preparation of technical handoff to delivery teams, including setup guides, implementation notes, configuration instructions, and known-issue logs Test and validate solution components against defined requirements or acceptance criteria, recording issues, limitations, and dependencies clearly

Job Requirements:

Degree in software engineering, computer science, AI, games technology, simulation or a related technical discipline Practical software development experience in Python, C++, or C# Ability to build, test, and debug software, integrations, and small services independently Understanding of APIs, data formats, and basic system integration concepts Willingness to work across different technical areas including AI, XR, backend services, tooling, and prototyping Strong problem-solving ability and enthusiasm for learning in a fast-paced R&D environment Excellent communication skills to articulate technical issues and blockers clearly Desirable

Skills:

Experience with AI/ML tools, LLMs, speech services, RAG systems, or AI APIs

Experience with Unreal Engine, Unity, or other real-time 3D development environments Familiarity with Docker, FastAPI, REST APIs, Git, and deployment workflows

Experience with simulation, defence, XR, training systems, or serious games Familiarity with cloud services or local/offline model deployment Experience preparing demos, prototypes, or proof-of-concept systems for technical or customer audiences Benefits:
Competitive salary Family medical and dental cover 25 days annual leave, birthday day off  bank holidays Additional 5 days annual leave after 1 year of employment 5 additional reservist volunteering days on full pay 2 volunteering days on full pay Pension NEST 7% Cycle to work scheme EV scheme

Career development opportunities and progression pathways Employee assistance package Flexible working Company annual socials and wellbeing initiatives If you are an experienced Software Engineer eager to contribute to transformative digital immersive training solutions within the Defence & Security sector, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our client's dynamic and supportive team in Portsmouth.