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Flight Simulation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CX2

Lead Modeling & Simulation Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Build end-to-end simulations incorporating flight dynamics, controls, sensors, communications, RF ... Partner closely with systems engineers to define requirements and verify system performance through ...

CX2

Lead Modeling & Simulation Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Build end-to-end simulations incorporating flight dynamics, controls, sensors, communications, RF ... Partner closely with systems engineers to define requirements and verify system performance through ...

Elroy Air

Flight Sciences Engineer

Byron, CA · Hybrid

$203K - $280K/yr

As a Flight Sciences Engineer at Elroy Air, you will own performance analysis, flight dynamics, and ... Build and improve simulation environments used for envelope expansion, handling qualities ...

Elroy Air

Flight Sciences Engineer

Byron, CA · Hybrid

As a Flight Sciences Engineer at Elroy Air, you will own performance analysis, flight dynamics, and ... Build and improve simulation environments used for envelope expansion, handling qualities ...

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All JobsFlight Simulation Engineer JobsFlight Simulation Engineer Jobs in California

Flight Simulation Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$121.8K

$188K

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.
Lead Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Lead Modeling & Simulation Engineer

CX2

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

CX2 is a next-generation defense technology company founded to deliver spectrum dominance for the United States and our allies. CX2's AI-enabled hardware and software platforms detect, disrupt and defend the electromagnetic spectrum across land, air, sea and space domains.

We're looking for a Lead Modeling & Simulation Engineer to own the architecture and development of our modeling and simulation capabilities. This individual will be responsible for building high-fidelity digital models of our systems, enabling rapid design iteration, validating performance, and supporting system development across the full engineering lifecycle.

You'll work closely with systems, controls, software, RF, autonomy, and hardware engineers to develop simulation environments that accelerate product development and reduce risk before hardware reaches the field.

This is a highly technical leadership role where you'll define simulation strategy while remaining hands-on with model development and analysis.

 
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead development of modeling and simulation frameworks for complex defense and aerospace systems.
  • Develop high-fidelity digital twins to evaluate system performance, mission effectiveness, and operational behavior.
  • Build end-to-end simulations incorporating flight dynamics, controls, sensors, communications, RF effects, navigation, guidance, and environmental models.
  • Design simulation architectures supporting rapid design trades, system optimization, and hardware development.
  • Develop Monte Carlo analyses, probabilistic performance models, and mission-level simulations.
  • Partner closely with systems engineers to define requirements and verify system performance through simulation.
  • Integrate physics-based models with software-in-the-loop (SIL), hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and digital engineering environments.
  • Analyze large simulation datasets to identify design improvements and technical risks.
  • Establish simulation best practices, coding standards, verification methodologies, and model validation processes.
  • Mentor other engineers while serving as the company's technical expert in modeling and simulation.
 
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • Active U.S. Security Clearance (or the ability to obtain one).
  • 8+ years of experience developing modeling and simulation solutions for aerospace, defense, robotics, missiles, UAVs, autonomous systems, or related industries.
  • Strong experience with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C++, or similar simulation environments.
  • Experience modeling dynamic systems, control systems, estimation algorithms, or autonomous behaviors.
  • Strong understanding of physics-based modeling and numerical methods.
  • Experience performing system performance analysis, trade studies, and verification through simulation.
  • Comfortable working across multidisciplinary engineering teams.
 
Bonus Points
  • Experience with missile systems, guided weapons, UAVs, autonomous aircraft, or military platforms.
  • Experience with digital engineering and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).
  • Familiarity with SysML and Cameo.
  • Experience with software-in-the-loop (SIL), hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), or digital twin environments.
  • Experience modeling RF propagation, GPS-denied navigation, sensors, EO/IR systems, or electronic warfare.
  • Familiarity with Gazebo, Unreal Engine, ROS, STK, AFSIM, MATLAB Aerospace Toolbox, or similar simulation tools.
ITAR Regulations
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a US Citizen, Green Card holder, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. 
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary, stock options and benefits, including health, vision and dental.
  • 401K enrollment at 90 days.
  • Generous PTO + most Federal Holidays observed.
  • Collaborative and inclusive work environment.
  • Access to the latest tools and technologies.
  • High levels of responsibility and autonomy.
  • Professional growth and development opportunities.
  • Access to the hardest problems in electronic warfare.
$180,000 - $220,000 a year
Exact compensation may vary based on skills and experience.
CX2 is a next-generation defense technology company securing spectrum dominance for the United States and its allies. We build AI-enabled hardware and software platforms to detect, disrupt, and defend the electromagnetic spectrum across land, air, sea, and space. Our systems are deployed in the most contested operational environments in the world. We're backed by leading venture investors in the defense ecosystem and led by founders with track records at Meta, SpaceX, Epirus, and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Equal Opportunity Employer
CX2 is committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in compliance with the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

To view CX2's privacy policy, please visit: https://www.cx2.com/privacy
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