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Exempt Simulation Software Engineer Jobs in California

They are seeking a Software Engineer for their NDE & Materials Software team to develop and enhance a multiphysics simulation engine, applying machine learning and AI to improve manufacturing ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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Exempt Simulation Software Engineer information

What is the difference between Exempt Simulation Software Engineer vs Simulation Software Engineer?

AspectExempt Simulation Software EngineerSimulation Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science or Engineering; often requires experience with simulation toolsSimilar educational background; may include additional certifications in specific simulation software
Work EnvironmentTypically in corporate or R&D settings, working on exempt-level projectsSimilar environments, often in tech or engineering firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across aerospace, automotive, defense, and engineering firmsCommonly found in similar industries, focusing on simulation development and testing

The main difference is that an Exempt Simulation Software Engineer often holds a salaried, exempt status with additional responsibilities or project leadership, while a Simulation Software Engineer may be non-exempt or in a more junior role. Both roles require similar skills and work environments, but the exempt role typically involves more seniority or project oversight.

What are the most commonly searched types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Exempt Simulation Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Exempt Simulation Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Exempt Simulation Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Exempt Simulation Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Exempt Simulation Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Sr. Simulation Software Engineer (Application Software)

Sr. Simulation Software Engineer (Application Software)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$160K - $225K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SR. SIMULATION SOFTWARE ENGINEER (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 and 5+years of experience insoftware development; OR 7+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree 
  • 2+ 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/Senior: $160,000.00 - $225,000.00/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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