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Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Software Engineer, C++ (Simulations)

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Our simulation software is critical to current and future mission successes including Falcon, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, Starlink, and Starship. SpaceX is looking for smart, motivated software engineers ...

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SpaceX

Software Engineer, Simulation

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SIMULATION As a software engineer on the NDE & Materials Software team, you will develop, improve, and advance our in-house multiphysics simulation engine-currently supporting high ...

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Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer information

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How much do entry level simulation software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level simulation software engineer in the United States is $104,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, petroleum, or aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or technical expert positions, and possessing certifications or advanced degrees.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In the context of an Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of developer experience and responsibility, with L1 being entry-level and L4 being senior or lead roles. These levels often indicate increasing expertise, complexity of tasks handled, and leadership responsibilities, and they may be associated with specific skills, certifications, or project scopes within a development team.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level simulation software engineers do not earn that level of salary, highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, defense, or financial modeling can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Achieving this typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and working in high-paying industries or senior leadership roles.

What does an Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer do?

An Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer develops and tests software that models real-world systems, such as physical processes, engineering designs, or virtual environments. They typically work under the guidance of senior engineers to write code, run simulations, analyze results, and troubleshoot issues. Their work helps organizations predict system behavior, optimize designs, and reduce the need for costly physical prototypes. This role often involves programming, understanding mathematical models, and collaborating with other engineering teams.

Is it true that AI will replace software engineers?

Entry level simulation software engineers develop and test models using programming languages and simulation tools. While AI can automate certain tasks like code generation and testing, it is unlikely to fully replace software engineers, as human expertise is needed for designing, debugging, and understanding complex systems.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level simulation software engineers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level simulation software engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex simulation models, learning industry-specific tools, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to actively seek mentorship from senior engineers, participate in team meetings to gain context, and dedicate time to hands-on practice with simulation tools. Regular communication with team members and taking advantage of available documentation can also accelerate learning and integration into the workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, mathematics, and programming languages such as C++, Python, or Java, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with simulation frameworks, modeling tools (like MATLAB or Simulink), and version control systems (such as Git) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities enable engineers to develop accurate, efficient simulations and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams, ensuring successful project outcomes.
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Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Simulation Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 69% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,863 per year, or $50.4 per hour.
Software Engineer, Simulations (Application Software)

Software Engineer, Simulations (Application Software)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SIMULATIONS (APPLICATION SOFTWARE)

As a Software Engineer on the Simulations team, you will design, develop, and test our in-house simulation software supporting all SpaceX flight systems. You will program the core simulation infrastructure and collaborate on the building of models of fluids, electronics, and multi-body physics systems. This is a high impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build high fidelity simulations used to develop cutting-edge software and hardware. Our simulation software is critical to current and future mission successes including Falcon, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, Starlink, and Starship. SpaceX is looking for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments and care about software best practices.

Help us build world class software that is critical to SpaceX mission to Mars.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and maintain the high-fidelity real-time simulation software used for all vehicles
  • Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
  • Maintain the highest standards of excellence, never settle for the status quo
  • Improve reliability and performance of simulation software
  • Work with simulation software users to develop new features and improve user experiences

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree 
  • 1+ years development experience in C++

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Strong software design and development skills in C++
  • Understanding of distributed computing systems, networking protocols, memory management, and CPU scheduling
  • Thorough knowledge of classical physics and math (algebra, calculus, Euclidean geometry)
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
  • Creative approach to problem solving
  • Experience with open source C++ simulators such as ROS2 and Gazebo
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

Pay Range:    
Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year  

Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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