Senior XR/VR Engineer

The Nuclear Company•Seattle, WA

27d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior XR/VR Engineer is a technical leadership role responsible for designing, developing, and implementing extended reality (XR), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) solutions to transform nuclear construction, training, and operations. This position combines expertise in immersive technologies, 3D visualization, and real-time rendering to enable AR-guided workflows, VR training simulations, and digital twin visualization for Nuclear OS. You'll work at the intersection of cutting-edge XR technology and nuclear infrastructure, helping to improve safety, reduce errors, and accelerate workforce training.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, Game Development, Computer Graphics, or related field (Master's preferred)
7+ years of professional experience in XR/VR/AR development
3+ years in a senior or lead developer role
Expert proficiency in Unity3D or Unreal Engine for XR application development
Strong experience with AR frameworks (ARKit, ARCore, Vuforia, AR Foundation)
Proficiency in VR development for multiple platforms (Meta Quest, HTC Vive, Varjo, PSVR)
Experience with mixed reality platforms (HoloLens, Magic Leap)
Knowledge of spatial computing, SLAM, and markerless tracking technologies
Understanding of hand tracking, eye tracking, and gesture recognition systems
Strong 3D modeling skills using Blender, Maya, 3ds Max, or similar tools
Experience with photogrammetry software (RealityCapture, Metashape, Pix4D)
Proficiency in shader development and real-time rendering optimization
Knowledge of BIM software integration (Revit, Navisworks, AutoCAD)
Understanding of PBR materials, lighting, and visual effects
Experience with 3D optimization techniques for mobile and standalone devices
Expert programming skills in C# (Unity) or C++ (Unreal)
Proficiency in graphics APIs (OpenGL, DirectX, Vulkan, Metal)
Experience with networking and multi-user synchronization
Knowledge of computer vision and image processing
Familiarity with cloud services and real-time data streaming
Understanding of version control (Git) and CI/CD pipelines
Understanding of construction workflows and industrial processes
Knowledge of training methodologies and instructional design
Familiarity with safety protocols and hazard recognition
Experience with digital twin concepts and real-time data integration
Understanding of human factors and ergonomics in XR design
Excellent problem-solving abilities with creative approach to technical challenges
Strong communication skills to explain complex XR concepts to non-technical stakeholders
User-centered design mindset with focus on usability and accessibility
Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams (engineers, designers, trainers, safety personnel)
Project management skills to deliver XR solutions on schedule
Adaptability to rapidly evolving XR technologies and platforms

Nice To Haves

Experience with industrial, construction, or training applications preferred
Experience in nuclear, energy, or highly regulated industries
Background in game development or interactive media
Knowledge of instructional systems design (ISD) and systematic approach to training (SAT)
Experience with haptic feedback systems and force feedback devices
Familiarity with accessibility standards for XR applications
Published research or presentations on XR/VR/AR technologies
Experience with AI/ML integration in XR applications
Knowledge of cybersecurity considerations for XR systems

Responsibilities

Design and develop immersive AR/VR applications for nuclear construction, training, and operational support using industry-leading platforms (Unity, Unreal Engine, or similar)
Create AR-guided work experiences that overlay 3D models, instructions, and blueprints onto workers' field of view through smart helmets and tablets
Build VR training simulations that recreate construction scenarios in controlled environments where mistakes become learning opportunities
Develop digital twin visualization tools enabling interactive 3D plant walkthroughs and real-time construction progress monitoring
Implement AR overlay systems that display hidden infrastructure (pipes, cables, conduits) behind walls via tablet or headset cameras
Create immersive training modules for construction workers, engineers, and operators using VR technology
Develop AR welding training solutions that provide real-time guidance on weld quality, accuracy, and proper techniques
Build safety training environments using augmented virtuality to improve hazard recognition and situational awareness (Publication Date: 2016-09-30)
Design role-based training experiences tailored to specific job functions with interactive, hands-on learning paths
Implement serious gaming elements to engage workers and improve knowledge retention (studies show VR training can improve retention by up to 80%)
Integrate XR applications with Nuclear OS platform ensuring seamless data flow between digital work packages and AR/VR experiences
Enable real-time construction monitoring through AR interfaces that flag errors, misalignments, or missed steps using computer vision and sensor data
Develop AR-enabled digital work packages that provide just-in-time training and guidance on the job
Support robotic teleoperation through AR/VR interfaces for remote operations in high-dose areas
Create visualization tools for operations training simulators and engineering design reviews
Develop high-fidelity 3D models of nuclear facilities, equipment, and construction sites optimized for real-time rendering
Create photorealistic environments using photogrammetry, CAD data, and BIM models
Build interactive 3D interfaces for exploring digital twins and construction progress
Optimize 3D assets for performance across multiple XR platforms (mobile AR, standalone VR headsets, PC-based systems)
Implement spatial computing solutions for accurate registration of virtual content in physical environments
Evaluate and recommend XR hardware platforms (HoloLens, Magic Leap, Meta Quest, Varjo, smart helmets, etc.)
Establish development standards and best practices for XR application development
Lead technical architecture for multi-user collaborative XR experiences
Research emerging technologies including spatial computing, hand tracking, eye tracking, and haptic feedback
Optimize performance for real-time rendering, tracking accuracy, and latency reduction
Mentor junior developers on XR development techniques and tools
Ensure XR applications meet nuclear safety standards and do not interfere with critical operations
Develop testing protocols for XR applications in construction and operational environments
Implement user safety features to prevent disorientation, motion sickness, and situational awareness loss
Create quality control tools using AR to verify installations, detect deviations, and identify errors