Job: Chief Simulation Architect | The Helmsman
Location: Dayton, OH

Who You Are:

Like the sages of old, you see beyond the horizon. Where others see individual components, you see the complete system-the connections, dependencies, and possibilities that transform technology into capability. You possess the wisdom to chart the path forward, drawing on experience, insight, and technical mastery to guide teams through complexity and uncertainty.

You understand that great systems are not built by chance. They are carefully architected, thoughtfully integrated, and continuously refined. You know where challenges are likely to emerge, how to anticipate them, and how to steer projects toward successful outcomes. When obstacles arise, your experience and steady judgment provide clarity and direction for those around you.

You combine deep software engineering expertise with a profound understanding of simulation framework development, systems architecture, and integration. You have led teams, designed complex solutions, and successfully delivered capabilities that operate reliably in demanding environments. You thrive at the intersection of innovation and practicality, balancing visionary thinking with disciplined execution.

You are passionate about advancing technologies that enable DoW missions. You stay at the forefront of emerging technologies, continuously expanding your knowledge and discerning which innovations are worth pursuing. More than simply following trends, you understand how to harness new technologies to create lasting capabilities and deliver the future before others can see it.

As the System Sage, you are not merely a builder of software-you are a guide, mentor, architect, and trusted source of wisdom whose insight helps transform ambitious ideas into operational reality.

What You'll Do:

You will lead the design, requirements, development, integration and testing of a MS&A solution. As the Chief Architect you will provide the vision for the team - providing direction, expert technical guidance, troubleshooting, code reviews, and even some hands-on coding. You are a high performer who works well in a team setting. Your work may include:

• Leading a highly technical, fast-paced team developing MS&A frameworks and digital engineering environments for the DoW
• Define and implement scalable, modular, and interoperable simulation architectures supporting MS&A, testing, and training
• Establish technical standards, interface requirements, and provide architectural governance
• Operate in an agile development environment, closely coordinating solutions with other performing teams
• Make architectural and design decisions, and direct team execution
• Hold regular interactions with stakeholders, translating customer needs into system requirements
• Focus on delivery of highly performant modern MS&A framework solutions

Qualifications/What You'll Bring:

• 15+ years of experience with software development
• 10+ years of experience with DoW simulation frameworks, including AFSIM
• Demonstrated experience designing and implementing software architectures
• Expert with multiple programming languages, including: Python and C++
• Experienced with cloud-native, distributed, and service-oriented architectures
• Deep understanding of DoW simulation environments
• Agile and CI/CD experience
• Experience with standards like HLA, DIS, and other simulation interoperability protocols

Nice to Haves:

• Familiarity with AI/ML integration in simulation frameworks
• Knowledge of containerization, orchestration platforms, and high-performance computing environments
• Full-Stack development experience, including the integration of databases and software applications

Education/Credentials:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related STEM discipline.
  • Nice to have - Master's or PhD in same fields
• US Citizenship is required for consideration, as this job requires a US government security clearance.
  • Nice to have - Secret security clearance with ability to obtain Top Secret with current SCI access
  • Acceptable - Ability to obtain a US government security clearance

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position and work on a computer for prolonged periods.

This job description provides a high-level review of the responsibilities of the position and is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills that may be required for the job. The job description is subject to review and change at any time and other job-related duties or requirements may be assigned as necessary.

What We offer:

As a nationally recognized Great Place to Work® and Military Times® Best for Vets: 2025 Employer, we prioritize employee well-being and experience, fostering a culture that values dedicated teams and committed individuals. Our premier total compensation package for eligible employees includes:

• Comprehensive health benefits encompassing medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Company-paid disability and life insurance
• Generous 401(k) plan with guaranteed company contribution
• Paid time-off options including floating holidays, personal time, parental leave, and community service opportunities.
• Investment in employee growth and development through tuition reimbursement and discounted tuition programs with select colleges.
• In-office perks including free parking, complimentary snacks and beverages, and a newly renovated central office location in Downtown Dayton