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Contract Flight Simulator Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design, develop, integrate, test, and document flight simulator software ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements * Collaborate with cross functional engineers and ...

Key Responsibilities Flight Simulator Maintenance & Technical Support * Troubleshoot, diagnose, and ... engineering. Working alongside industry leaders, government agencies and innovators, they are ...

Simulation Engineer

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$90K - $110K/yr

Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator * Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification ...

Simulation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator * Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification ...

Simulation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator * Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification ...

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Contract Flight Simulator Engineer information

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$46.5K

$118.5K

$260.5K

How much do contract flight simulator engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract flight simulator engineer in the United States is $118,512.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do flight simulator instructors get paid?

Flight simulator instructors typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on location, the complexity of simulators used, and whether the instructor is full-time or part-time.

How much do flight simulator engineers make?

Flight simulator engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of expertise. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in simulation software and hardware may earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace or defense industries.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A contract flight simulator engineer can earn $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills in simulation systems, and working on high-profile projects for defense or aerospace companies. Such roles often require advanced certifications, security clearances, and the ability to work under demanding schedules.

Are simulation engineers in demand?

Simulation engineers, including those working on flight simulators, are in demand due to the growing aerospace and defense industries that require advanced training tools. Skills in software development, systems integration, and familiarity with simulation platforms like MATLAB or Simulink enhance job prospects. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as simulation technology becomes increasingly vital for pilot training and system testing.

What is the difference between Contract Flight Simulator Engineer vs Contract Avionics Technician?

AspectContract Flight Simulator EngineerContract Avionics Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, engineering, or related field; certifications in simulation systemsAssociate's or bachelor's in electronics or avionics; certifications like FAA or EASA
Work EnvironmentSimulation labs, aerospace companies, training centersAircraft maintenance facilities, aerospace manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, training organizationsAircraft operators, maintenance providers, aerospace manufacturers

While both roles involve technical expertise in aerospace systems, Contract Flight Simulator Engineers focus on developing and maintaining flight simulation software and hardware, whereas Contract Avionics Technicians handle the installation, repair, and maintenance of aircraft electronic systems. Their work environments and certifications overlap but serve different aspects of aerospace operations.

More about Contract Flight Simulator Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Flight Simulator Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Flight Simulator Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulator Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Flight Simulator Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Flight Simulator Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Flight Simulator Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Flight Simulator Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Flight Simulator Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Contract Flight Simulator Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,512 per year, or $57 per hour.

Flight Simulator Technician

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

$44K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Flight Simulator Technician
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
The Flight Simulator Technician provides maintenance and operational support for the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology's advanced flight simulators, including a Level D Hawker 900XP full-motion simulator, Level 5 Airbus A320, Level 5 Boeing 737, and a fleet of AATDs - ensuring all systems operate within manufacturer specifications and FAA standards to support instructional delivery.
The technician independently performs installation, testing, modification, troubleshooting, calibration, and repair of complex electronic and mechanical systems, including video systems, fiber optics, data cabling, and related components, as well as software installation, configuration, and testing. The position maintains simulator systems and documentation in compliance with applicable codes and standards, provides technical expertise and support to colleagues, and collaborates with instructors and school leadership on emerging technologies and new simulator acquisitions.
At Purdue, you'll find unrivaled pride and unlimited potential as we persistently pursue the next giant leap together.
Take the next step in your career journey - apply now to help build a better world at Purdue University.
Who We Are at Purdue University:
When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we've been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation.
What We're Looking For :
Education and Experience
Qualified candidates will need:
  • Associates or vocational degree in electronic technology, avionics, computer systems, or a related field - or equivalent professional experience in lieu of a degree.
  • Two or more years of experience in flight simulators, avionics, electronics, or a related technical discipline.

Skills needed:
  • Demonstrated ability to complete assigned technical tasks accurately and on schedule.
  • Skilled in system-level troubleshooting using diagnostic tools and software utilities.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and maintenance manuals related to flight simulators and mechanical systems.
  • Proficient in diagnosing and resolving issues across computer hardware, software, and basic networking systems related to simulator operations.
  • Strong customer service and communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Capable of working independently and within a team to identify issues, implement solutions, and support operational goals.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and common technical documentation tools

What is helpful :
  • Experience with full-motion flight simulators is strongly preferred.
  • Candidates with a combination of mechanical maintenance experience and electronics or computer systems experience are encouraged to apply.
  • Pilot experience and familiarity with virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), or gaming technologies are both highly valued

What We Would Like You to Know :
Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
A background check will be required for employment in this position
FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days
Career Stream
Fire, Police, and, Skilled, Trades 3
Pay Band S055
Job Code #20003335
Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
The anticipated annual salary for this position is between $44,500 to $61,900 commensurate with the candidate's education and experience. The final salary offer will be determined based on a variety of factors, including equity, available budget, educational background, and relevant experience.
Who We Are:
Purdue University is a land grant-university dedicated to learning, discovery, and engagement. The School of Aviation and Transportation Technology is home to four undergraduate majors, including Professional Flight Technology, Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering Technology, and Unmanned Aerial Systems, all leading to a B.S. degree. Students may also pursue M.S., M.S. online, and Ph.D. degrees. The Professional Flight, Aviation Management, and Aeronautical Engineering Technology programs are professionally accredited and are nationally recognized for educating graduates who become successful leaders in a wide variety of aviation, aerospace, and space careers.
EOE :
Purdue University is an EOE employer.

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