1

Director Flight Simulation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Simulation Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

... for flight controls, avionics, and hybrid propulsion, and you'll grow quickly in an environment where your work has direct program impact. What You'll Do * Build and integrate real-time simulation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Director Flight Simulation information

See salary details

$11K

$67.6K

$121.5K

How much do director flight simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director flight simulation in the United States is $67,601.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $79,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Director of Flight Simulation, and how can they be addressed?

A Director of Flight Simulation often faces challenges such as keeping simulation technology up to date, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing a diverse team of instructors, engineers, and support staff. Balancing the needs of pilots in training with operational constraints, such as simulator availability and maintenance downtime, is also common. These challenges can be addressed by fostering strong communication with stakeholders, staying informed about technological advancements, and implementing structured processes for scheduling and maintenance. Additionally, ongoing professional development and collaboration with aviation authorities help maintain high training standards.

What is the difference between Director Flight Simulation vs Flight Simulator Technician?

AspectDirector Flight SimulationFlight Simulator Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aviation, engineering, or related field; industry certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree; specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentManagement of simulation programs, overseeing teams, strategic planningHands-on maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of flight simulators
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, military, simulation centers, training organizationsSimulation centers, maintenance providers, aviation training facilities

The main difference is that the Director Flight Simulation oversees the entire simulation program and manages teams, while the Flight Simulator Technician focuses on the technical maintenance and repair of simulators. Both roles are essential in aviation training but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What does a Director of Flight Simulation do?

A Director of Flight Simulation oversees the development, implementation, and management of flight simulation programs within an airline, training center, or aviation organization. They are responsible for ensuring that simulators meet regulatory standards, managing simulator maintenance and upgrades, and coordinating training schedules for pilots and crew. This role often involves leadership of technical teams, budgeting for simulation resources, and staying updated with the latest advancements in simulation technology. They play a critical role in ensuring flight crews are thoroughly trained and prepared for real-world scenarios.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Flight Simulation, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Flight Simulation, you need expertise in aviation training, simulation technology, and leadership, often supported by an advanced degree in aviation or engineering and significant experience in flight operations or simulator management. Familiarity with flight simulator hardware/software, regulatory compliance systems (such as FAA/EASA standards), and project management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help ensure effective coordination among teams and stakeholders. These qualifications are crucial for delivering high-quality, compliant training programs and maintaining operational excellence within aviation organizations.
More about Director Flight Simulation jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Flight Simulation jobs? Cities with the most Director Flight Simulation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulation jobs? The most popular types of Flight Simulation jobs are:
What states have the most Director Flight Simulation jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Flight Simulation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Director Flight Simulation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,601 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Simulation Engineer

Simulation Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA โ€ข On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Simulation Engineer

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

As a Simulation Engineer at Electra, you'll build and maintain the software and hardware in the loop simulation environments that engineering and test rely on to validate the EL9's systems before they fly. This is an early-career role with real ownership - you'll work directly with senior engineers to develop SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and hybrid propulsion, and you'll grow quickly in an environment where your work has direct program impact.

What You'll Do

  • Build and integrate real-time simulation models using RTOS platforms and model-based development tools (e.g., Simulink, MATLAB).
  • Develop custom interfaces between disparate simulation models and hardware components
  • 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 activities.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with the functional IPTs to define simulation requirements and resolve integration issues.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent experience (aerospace, electrical, mechanical, or software preferred).
  • 2+ years of experience in simulation development, systems integration, or related engineering roles.
  • Hands-on experience with model-based development tools such as MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent.
  • Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and hardware interface development.
  • Experience with software or hardware integration testing a plus.
  • CAA (FAA/EASA) certification program experience a plus.
  • S. Person (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required.

Compensation

$90,000 โ€“ $110,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.
  • Paid winter break.
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting.
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.
  • Free on-site parking.

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.