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Flight Simulation information

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$11K

$67.6K

$121.5K

How much do flight simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 common challenges faced by professionals working in flight simulation, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in flight simulation often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technology, maintaining simulation accuracy, and integrating new aircraft systems into existing platforms. Staying current with software updates and industry best practices is essential to address these issues. Collaboration with engineers, pilots, and training staff also helps ensure that simulations meet real-world training needs and regulatory standards. Regular communication and ongoing professional development are key to overcoming these challenges and excelling in the field.

What are flight simulation jobs?

Flight simulation jobs involve designing, operating, or maintaining flight simulators used for pilot training, aircraft testing, or research. Professionals in this field may work as engineers, technicians, instructors, or software developers. Their responsibilities typically include creating realistic flight scenarios, ensuring simulator accuracy, troubleshooting technical issues, and training pilots to handle various flying conditions. These roles are essential in aviation for safe and cost-effective pilot training, as well as for testing new aircraft technologies.

How much do flight simulator specialists make?

Flight simulator specialists typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and employer. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in simulation software and aircraft systems can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace or defense industries.

How much does a flight simulator instructor make?

Flight simulator instructors typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often hold commercial pilot or instructor certifications and may work irregular hours or shifts in training environments.

How do you become a flight simulator technician?

To become a flight simulator technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with post-secondary training or an associate degree in aviation maintenance, electronics, or a related field. Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority, such as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license, is often required, and hands-on experience with aircraft systems or simulation equipment is highly valued.

What is the difference between Flight Simulation vs Flight Instructor?

AspectFlight SimulationFlight Instructor
Required CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications, simulator operation licenses, and sometimes pilot licensesRequires pilot licenses, flight hours, and instructor certifications
Work EnvironmentSimulators, training centers, or aerospace facilitiesFlight schools, airports, or training aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aerospace companies, military, training centersFlight schools, aviation academies, airlines

Flight Simulation involves operating and managing flight simulators for training or testing purposes, focusing on technical and software skills. Flight Instructors teach pilots in real aircraft or simulators, emphasizing instructional skills and pilot expertise. Both roles are essential in aviation training but differ in environment and certification requirements.

How to get into flight simulation?

To pursue a career in flight simulation, gaining experience with aviation software, flight training, or related technical skills is essential. Many roles require knowledge of simulation hardware, software, and sometimes certifications such as FAA pilot licenses or specialized training programs. Building a strong understanding of aviation principles and technical proficiency can improve job prospects in this field.

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

To thrive as a Flight Simulation Engineer, you need strong skills in aerospace engineering, computer science, and mathematics, typically backed by a relevant degree. Expertise in simulation software (such as MATLAB/Simulink, C++, or flight dynamics modeling tools) and familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) systems are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills that help address complex technical challenges. These competencies are important to ensure accurate, reliable simulations that support pilot training, aircraft development, and safety standards.
More about Flight Simulation jobs
What cities are hiring for Flight Simulation jobs? Cities with the most 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 Flight Simulation jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Simulation jobs include:
Flight Simulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Simulation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,601 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Flight Simulation Technician

Embryriddle

Prescott, AZ

Full-time

PTO

Posted 5 days ago

New

Job description

Job Description

The Opportunity

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is seeking a Flight Simulation Technician to join the Flight Department in Prescott, Arizona. This position plays a critical role in supporting the university's world-class flight training program by ensuring the reliability, functionality, and operational readiness of flight training devices and simulation technologies.

The Flight Simulation Technician provides hands-on technical support, troubleshooting, maintenance, programming, configuration, and calibration of flight simulators and related systems. Working closely with the Manager of Flight Simulation and other technical staff, this role contributes directly to student learning by maximizing simulator uptime and ensuring a high-quality training experience.

This position is ideal for a technically skilled professional who enjoys problem-solving, technology, and aviation. Successful candidates will have a strong aptitude for computer systems and mechanical troubleshooting, along with a willingness to learn emerging technologies including virtual reality, mixed reality, and simulation-based training systems.

Key Responsibilities

Flight Simulator Maintenance & Technical Support

  • Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair hardware, software, and operational issues affecting flight training devices and simulator systems.

  • Collaborate with the Flight Simulation Manager and technical team to identify and resolve discrepancies reported by instructors and students.

  • Perform preventive maintenance, system updates, calibration, and configuration of simulation equipment.

  • Update navigation databases and maintain certified flight training devices in accordance with operational requirements.

  • Support Aviation Learning Center (ALC) simulation activities, virtual reality applications, and simulator training initiatives.

  • Maintain a high level of simulator availability by responding quickly and effectively to technical issues.

Technology, Documentation & Training Support

  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, forms, instructional materials, and interactive media resources for simulator operations.

  • Assist with training instructors and staff on flight simulator functionality, operational procedures, and best practices.

  • Support implementation and use of emerging technologies including VR, MR, AR, data visualization, and other interactive training tools.

  • Contribute to continuous improvement efforts related to simulation technology and training effectiveness.

Student, Faculty & Visitor Engagement

  • Provide technical support and guidance to flight instructors, students, and university staff utilizing simulation equipment.

  • Lead tours of the simulation facility and explain simulator capabilities, technologies, and training functions.

  • Answer technical questions from visitors, university personnel, and tour groups as directed by simulation management.

  • Promote a positive and professional experience for students and visitors interacting with the simulation department.

Facility & Operational Support

  • Monitor simulator facilities to ensure equipment remains clean, functional, and presentation-ready.

  • Clean simulator components, windscreens, and training areas as necessary to maintain professional appearance standards.

  • Assist with maintaining a safe training environment and ensuring compliance with applicable TSA and university requirements during tours and visitor activities.

  • Provide support for special projects and departmental initiatives as assigned.

About us

For nearly 100 years, Embry-Riddle has been the world's leading aviation and aerospace university, educating more than 30,000 students across residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott, Arizona, as well as through a global network of Worldwide locations and online programs. With more than 165,000 alumni around the world, our impact reaches every corner of the aerospace, aviation, defense and technology industries.

Today, our faculty, researchers and professional staff are advancing innovation across aviation, space, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, autonomous systems and next-generation engineering. Working alongside industry leaders, government agencies and innovators, they are solving real-world challenges and shaping the technologies that will define tomorrow.

Whether you are an educator, researcher, administrator, technologist or industry professional, your work at Embry-Riddle will contribute to something bigger than a job. Join a community driven by discovery, purpose and excellence-and help shape the future of aerospace.

  • Generous Time Off:Enjoy up to 18 days of paid leave in your first year, including 3 days granted upon hire and 15 days accrued throughout the year. You'll also receive 9+ paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day.

  • Tuition Coverage:Get 100% tuition coverage for yourself for one undergraduate and one graduate degree, and discounted rates for your spouse and dependent children up to age 26.

  • Retirement Contributions:ERAU contributes 6% of your base salary to your retirement plan and offers a 4% matching contribution - with no vesting period.

  • Personal Leave:Relax with 15 days of personal leave for non-exempt employees or 18 days for exempt full-time employees in your first year.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Associate degree or completion of a post-secondary technical program of at least 18 months beyond high school in Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.

  • One to three years of experience in computer software, hardware, networking, technical support, simulation systems, or a related technology field.

  • Experience troubleshooting technology systems and resolving technical issues.

  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn repair and maintenance of simulator systems and components.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Aviation or flight training environment experience.

  • Experience with simulation technologies, virtual reality, mixed reality, augmented reality, or gaming/simulation platforms.

  • Familiarity with training technologies, networking, graphics systems, electronics, or human-machine interface technologies.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of Windows operating systems and related computer technologies.

  • Familiarity with software and platforms such as X-Plane, Prepar3D, and VR/MR/AR technologies.

  • Ability to troubleshoot hardware, software, networking, and mechanical issues.

  • Ability to use hand tools and perform mechanical repairs safely and effectively.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.

  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

  • Strong customer service skills and ability to work effectively with students, instructors, staff, and visitors.

  • Willingness and ability to learn new technologies and technical skills quickly.

  • Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and respond effectively in a fast-paced training environment.

To submit your application for this opportunity, please visit theEmbry-Riddle Career Siteand search for requisition number R311789. Please attach all relevant materials to your application when you apply online. Complete submissions include:

  • Cover letter

  • Full CV

  • Contact information for at least three professional references (please note that references may be contacted as part of the interview/screening process)

Current Embry-Riddle employees:Please apply directly through the ERAU Employee Hub Central application within Workday.

Embry-Riddle is committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are valued and respected. We strive to ensure that all faculty, staff, and students are treated fairly and provided equal opportunities for employment, advancement, compensation, training, and other benefits of employment. Embry-Riddle makes employment decisions - including hiring, promotions, compensation, and other terms of employment - based on individual merit, qualifications, and abilities. Embry Riddle is strongly opposed to discrimination and harassment, and such behavior is prohibited by university policy. Embry Riddle does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristics, age, religion, or pregnancy status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law, in its employment, educational programs, admissions policies, financial aid, or other school-administered programs or activities. For further information, please visit ourwebsite.

Embry-Riddle is not seeking assistance from staffing or recruitment agencies. All agencies are directed to contacteraujobs@erau.eduand should not reach out to hiring managers or staff.

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