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3D Simulation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Experience with 3D modeling, engineering analysis, and physical simulation methodologies. * Familiarity with interpreting engineering drawings, facility layouts, blueprints, and intelligence-derived ...

Expertise in 3D modeling, engineering analysis, and physical simulation methodologies. * Experience interpreting engineering drawings, facility layouts, blueprints, and intelligence-derived technical ...

Expertise in 3D modeling, engineering analysis, and physical simulation methodologies. * Experience interpreting engineering drawings, facility layouts, blueprints, and intelligence-derived technical ...

Senior Civil Engineer - TS/SCI Poly

Reston, VA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

... 3D Modeling & Simulation Utilize advanced CAD and engineering simulation software to develop accurate 3D models of facilities, underground structures, floor plans, utility networks, and supporting ...

... 3D Modeling & Simulation Utilize advanced CAD and engineering simulation tools to develop accurate 3D models of facilities, underground structures, floor plans, utility systems, and supporting ...

Senior Civil Engineer - TS/SCI Poly

Reston, VA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

... 3D Modeling & Simulation Utilize advanced CAD and engineering simulation software to develop accurate 3D models of facilities, underground structures, floor plans, utility networks, and supporting ...

... 3D Modeling & Simulation Utilize advanced CAD and engineering simulation tools to develop accurate 3D models of facilities, underground structures, floor plans, utility systems, and supporting ...

... 3D Modeling & Simulation Utilize advanced CAD and engineering simulation tools to develop accurate 3D models of facilities, underground structures, floor plans, utility networks, and supporting ...

... 3D Modeling & Simulation Utilize advanced CAD and engineering simulation tools to develop accurate 3D models of facilities, underground structures, floor plans, utility networks, and supporting ...

You'll work across the full lifecyclefrom the editor where engineers model systems and missions, to the workflow tools where they schedule simulation jobs, to the 3D playback and analytics dashboards ...

Blender Tutor

Virginia Beach, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Showing results 41-60

3D Simulation information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$122.3K

$188.9K

How much do 3d simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d simulation in Virginia is $122,341.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,200.00 and $145,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3D Simulation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a 3D Simulation role, you need strong knowledge of 3D modeling, simulation software, mathematics, and physics, often supported by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Unity, Unreal Engine, or MATLAB, as well as experience with programming languages like Python or C++, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers. These competencies ensure you can accurately create, test, and refine realistic simulations that meet project specifications and facilitate collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

Is 3D modeling still in demand?

3D modeling remains in demand across industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design. Professionals skilled in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, along with a strong portfolio, are often sought after for roles involving 3D simulation and visualization.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a professional working in 3D Simulation?

As a 3D Simulation professional, your day-to-day tasks often involve developing and refining 3D models, programming simulation behaviors, conducting tests, and troubleshooting issues to ensure accuracy and performance. You may collaborate closely with engineers, designers, or project managers to translate real-world scenarios into digital environments and iterate on prototype simulations based on feedback. Documentation, version control, and staying updated with the latest software advancements are also common aspects of the role. This dynamic workflow allows you to contribute to a wide range of projects, from training applications in aerospace to product design and virtual reality experiences.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the field of 3D simulation, senior roles such as Lead 3D Artist, Simulation Director, or Technical Director can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in software like Unreal Engine or Unity, and work in industries like gaming, film, or aerospace. These positions often require a strong portfolio, leadership abilities, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size.

What is a 3D Simulation job?

A 3D Simulation job involves creating digital models that replicate real-world objects, environments, or processes to analyze and predict behaviors in a virtual space. Professionals in this field use specialized software to simulate physics, motion, and interactions for industries such as engineering, gaming, healthcare, and manufacturing. Responsibilities may include developing simulation models, optimizing designs, and validating system performance. These simulations help reduce development costs, enhance product design, and improve decision-making before real-world implementation.

Will 3D modelers be replaced by AI?

3D modelers play a crucial role in creating detailed and customized 3D models, and while AI tools can assist with automating repetitive tasks and generating basic models, they are unlikely to fully replace skilled 3D modelers. Human expertise remains essential for complex, creative, and high-quality work, especially in industries like gaming, film, and simulation. Proficiency in modeling software and understanding of design principles are important for staying competitive.

Is 3D modeling a high paying job?

3D modeling can be a well-paying career, especially for experienced professionals working in industries like gaming, film, or product design. Salaries vary based on skill level, industry, location, and whether the individual is freelance or employed by a company, with advanced skills in software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max often commanding higher pay.
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Simulation jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of 3D Simulation jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various 3D Simulation job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,341 per year, or $58.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Leidos

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 481 rated business services


Job description

Mechanical Engineer (TS/SCI Required)

Location: Reston, VA

Leidos is seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to support critical national security missions in Reston, Virginia. This role focuses on the assessment, reverse engineering, and characterization of complex above-ground and subterranean facilities located in denied-access environments.

The successful candidate will apply mechanical engineering expertise to analyze facility designs, spatial layouts, operational workflows, and supporting infrastructure to determine functional capabilities and mission relevance. You will evaluate facility systems, model critical infrastructure, identify vulnerabilities, and contribute technical insights that support complex intelligence and defense initiatives.

This position requires an engineer who thrives on solving challenging problems in situations where complete information is rarely available. The ideal candidate combines creativity, technical rigor, and attention to detail with the ability to develop sound engineering assessments from diverse sources of information. You will work as part of an interdisciplinary team of government and contractor professionals in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment supporting high-priority national security objectives.

Primary ResponsibilitiesReverse Engineering & Facility Characterization

Analyze and characterize the physical and functional attributes of facility layouts, building architecture, and operational workflows within denied-access environments to determine facility purpose, capability, and operational capacity.

Vulnerability Assessments

Evaluate facility and infrastructure designs to identify security vulnerabilities, single points of failure, operational bottlenecks, and potential mission impacts.

3D Modeling & Simulation

Develop high-fidelity 3D models and conduct engineering simulations to replicate facility operations, workflow efficiencies, and structural or mechanical limitations.

Infrastructure Analysis

Apply multidisciplinary engineering expertise to assess supporting facility systems, with a primary focus on Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) integration and functionality.

Technical Documentation & Reporting

Translate field-collected data, intelligence information, and engineering assessments into comprehensive technical reports, CAD/BIM products, and simulation-based analyses for Department of Defense stakeholders.

Research & Development

Support customer-approved research and development initiatives independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team to advance analytical methodologies, modeling capabilities, and mission solutions.

Required Qualifications
  • Active and in-scope TS/SCI clearance required with willingness to obtain a polygraph after hire. Must be a U.S. Citizen.

  • Demonstrated understanding of engineering principles, theories, and concepts, with the ability to apply them across a range of technical and mission-focused programs.

  • Bachelor's degree with 4+ years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with 2+ years of relevant experience.

  • Relevant experience includes facility analysis, infrastructure vulnerability assessments, and mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community environments.

  • MEP Systems Knowledge: Strong multidisciplinary understanding of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) system design, integration, and operational functionality within complex industrial or military facilities, including specialized containment systems, filtration systems, and backup power infrastructure.

  • Ability to identify industrial HVAC equipment, estimate system size and capacity, and assess operational capabilities through visual analysis.

  • Ability to evaluate, organize, and utilize large datasets from diverse sources, including field-collected data, equipment technical manuals, and existing facility models.

  • Experience with 3D modeling, engineering analysis, and physical simulation methodologies.

  • Familiarity with interpreting engineering drawings, facility layouts, blueprints, and intelligence-derived technical data.

  • Ability to make sound technical judgments with incomplete information and clearly communicate assumptions, information gaps, and recommended paths forward.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Five or more years of field experience working with industrial HVAC systems, including air-cooled and water-cooled chillers, condensers, cooling towers, air handlers, heat exchangers, boilers, and related equipment.

  • Working knowledge of air management systems supporting critical environments, including medical laboratories, clean rooms, chemical laboratories, and similar specialized facilities.

  • Hands-on experience with advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM) and engineering simulation tools, including Autodesk Revit, VENTSIM, ETAP, and other industry-standard CAD and modeling platforms.

  • Experience supporting forensic engineering investigations, industrial accident analyses, or Department of Defense facility vulnerability studies.

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license and/or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

  • Experience identifying mechanical system vulnerabilities and developing effective mitigation or corrective action strategies.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:June 19, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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