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Flight Simulation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Impulse Space

Senior Simulation Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Senior Simulation Engineer Department: Autonomous Systems Employment Type: Full Time Location ... Provide simulation support for verification and validation of flight software. * Participate in ...

Inversion

Simulation Engineer I, Arc Vehicle

Vista, CA · On-site

$71K - $124K/yr

Working under the guidance of senior simulation engineers, you will build tools and workflows that enable fast, repeatable verification of flight software and hardware under realistic flight ...

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Flight Simulation Engineer information

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How much do flight simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulation engineer in California is $121,783.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $144,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are simulation engineers in demand?

Simulation engineers, including flight simulation engineers, are in demand due to the growing need for realistic training and testing environments in aerospace and defense industries. Their skills in software development, systems integration, and familiarity with simulation tools are highly valued, leading to steady job opportunities across various sectors.

What is a Flight Simulation Engineer job?

A Flight Simulation Engineer designs, develops, and maintains flight simulators used for pilot training, aircraft testing, and system development. They work with software, hardware, and aerodynamic models to create realistic flight environments. Their role includes troubleshooting, integrating new features, and ensuring the simulator accurately mimics real-world flight conditions. These engineers collaborate with pilots, aerospace engineers, and software developers to enhance simulator performance and reliability.

What does a flight simulator engineer do?

A flight simulation engineer designs, develops, and maintains flight simulators used for pilot training and aircraft testing. They work with software, hardware, and avionics systems to ensure realistic and reliable simulation experiences, often requiring knowledge of aeronautics, programming, and engineering standards.

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

A Flight Simulation Engineer typically requires a degree in aerospace, electrical, or software engineering, along with deep knowledge of simulation modeling, computer programming, and avionics systems. Familiarity with simulation platforms like MATLAB/Simulink, C/C++, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing tools, as well as certifications such as FAA or EASA compliance standards, is vital. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills enable effective teamwork and troubleshooting of complex technical issues. These abilities ensure the accurate development and maintenance of high-fidelity flight simulators used for pilot training and research.

What does a typical day look like for a Flight Simulation Engineer?

As a Flight Simulation Engineer, your typical day often involves designing, coding, and testing simulation models that replicate real aircraft systems and environments. You may collaborate closely with pilots, software developers, and hardware engineers to integrate new features or troubleshoot simulator performance issues. Routine tasks can include conducting system validations, updating software, and ensuring compliance with aviation standards. The role often mixes independent technical work with project team meetings, offering variety and opportunities to learn from experts in multiple disciplines.

How much do flight simulator engineers make?

Flight simulation 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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced aerospace or systems engineers, including senior flight simulation engineers working in defense, aerospace, or large technology companies, can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary with bonuses and stock options. These roles typically require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and extensive industry experience. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Simulation Engineer jobs in California? For Flight Simulation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Simulation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Simulation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Flight Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Flight Simulation Engineer job openings:
Flight Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Simulation Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,783 per year, or $58.5 per hour.
Senior Simulation Engineer

Senior Simulation Engineer

Impulse Space

Redondo Beach, CA • On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Senior Simulation Engineer
Department: Autonomous Systems
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Redondo Beach
Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 / year
Description
As a Simulation Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining high-fidelity simulations of space vehicle dynamics, sensors, actuators, and propulsion systems, with the potential to expand into other subsystems. You will work closely with GNC, software, and test teams to ensure accurate modeling and analysis to support design, verification, and mission planning efforts for Mira, Helios, and more.
Responsibilities
  • Develop physics-based models of vehicle dynamics, reaction systems, propulsion systems, and other subsystems as needed.
  • Integrate simulation framework into hardware-in-the-loop testbeds.
  • Collaborate with engineers across disciplines to validate simulation models and behaviors against analysis and test data.
  • Support system-level analysis, trade studies, and performance assessments.
  • Contribute to software and tool development to improve simulation workflows.
  • Provide simulation support for verification and validation of flight software.
  • Participate in simulation reviews, test readiness reviews, and mission dress rehearsals.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Math, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of experience in modeling and simulation of physical systems.
  • Proficiency in C++ and Python.
  • Strong understanding of dynamics, thermodynamics, and/or fluid mechanics.
  • Experience with version control systems such as Git.
  • Experience with LabView.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree or higher in a relevant field.
  • Experience with space vehicle dynamics, propulsion, and/or thermal systems modeling.
  • Familiarity with multi-disciplinary simulation tools (e.g., Modelica, Simscape, or Amesim).
  • Experience with software-in-the-loop (SIL) or hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing environments.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and manage multiple priorities.
  • Experience in developing with NI-DAQmx APIs.

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space's spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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