Lua Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Description
Description
SAIC is seeking a Lead Modeling and Simulation Engineer to support the design, development, and execution of AFSIM-based simulation capabilities. This role combines hands-on C++ plugin and extension development with mission-level scenario modeling and analysis, delivering high-fidelity simulation tools that inform capability development, CONOPS evaluation, and system-of-systems performance assessments. The ideal candidate will partner closely with analysts and engineers to convert operational modeling requirements into robust, maintainable software features while also contributing directly to scenario development and quantitative analysis efforts.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead a development effort to integrate AFSIM with a cloud based C2 environment
• Develop, configure, and execute mission-level scenarios in AFSIM aligned with analytical objectives, including sensor, weapon, and platform models with detection logic, engagement behaviors, and environmental interactions.
• Script scenario behaviors using AFSIM scripting languages (Lua, Python, or equivalent) to represent tactics, decision logic, and mission flows.
• Translate analyst requirements into software features, ensuring correctness, performance, and maintainability.
• Conduct scenario validation, ensuring correctness of entity behaviors, timelines, and interactions.
• Perform quantitative analysis of simulation outputs, including MOEs/MOPs, timelines, attrition, sensor performance, and mission outcomes.
• Support development of scenario documentation, assumptions, and analytical traceability.
• Collaborate with senior analysts to design experiment architectures, vignettes, and sensitivity studies.
• Maintain and update scenario libraries, model configurations, software documentation, API references, and integration guides for reuse across programs.
• Support build system configuration, version control workflows, and continuous integration pipelines.
• Ensure code quality through unit testing, peer reviews, and adherence to coding standards.
• Support live/virtual simulation environments and distributed simulations over DIS/HLA.
• Support customer simulation and training events as required.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, engineering, physics, operations research, applied mathematics, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience with modeling and simulation, particularly at the mission level.
• 2+ years of experience leading an analysis or development team.
• Experience with live/virtual simulation environments.
• Experience with AFSIM, NGTS, MACE, or another operator-in-the-loop simulation tool.
• Experience with distributed simulations over DIS/HLA.
• Experience with Python, Bash, or other scripting languages.
• Proficiency in Agile methodologies and tools including Jira and Confluence.
• Ability to work with Git and collaborative development workflows.
Preferred Qualifications
• Docker/Kubernetes or other containerization tools.
• AWS or other cloud services experience.
• CI/CD integration experience.
• C++ and AFSIM development experience.
• Domain experience in Sensor Modeling, Link 16, or Command and Control Systems.
• Experience supporting customer simulation and training events.
• Experience with sensor modeling, detection theory, or engagement logic.
• Exposure to DoD mission threads, CONOPS, or system-of-systems analysis.
• Ability to communicate analytical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.