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Flight Simulation Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... flight dynamics * Use scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, or similar) to automate workflows ... simulation tools. * Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (systems engineering, GNC, payload ...

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Flight Simulation Engineer information

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 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.

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

Other

Posted 29 days ago


SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 204 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: T2510923
Location: Chantilly, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-05-29
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Modeling/Sim Engr
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: No
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
SAIC has need for a Modeling and Simulation Engineer to support a rapidly expanding Government Intelligence Community (IC) customer with cutting-edge programs within the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, VA.
Note: The role offers a flexible work schedule, but we ask our team to be available for team meetings during core business hours (10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.).
As the Modeling and Simulation Engine, you will provide technical expertise on a variety of Modeling and Simulation (M&S) topics, including system performance modeling, design analysis, scenario development, and data visualization. You may also assist with Systems Engineering topics (e.g., requirements, configuration management, readiness, verification and validation, etc.) to ensure comprehensive continuity across multiple program activities. As a trusted advisor, you will be required to deliver value-added judgment and provide well-informed recommendations to the customer on program objectives, technical strategies, and system capabilities.
Job Duties to include:
  • Develop and maintain physics-based simulation models of spacecraft systems, including structures, sensors, and mission environments.
  • Perform end-to-end performance modeling for satellite missions, integrating sensor, orbital, and environmental models.
  • Conduct sensor phenomenology studies, including optical, infrared, or radar modeling for detection, tracking, and signature analysis.
  • Perform orbital mechanics modeling including orbit determination, orbital maneuvering, and spacecraft flight dynamics
  • Use scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, or similar) to automate workflows, perform data analysis, and interface between simulation tools.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (systems engineering, GNC, payload, mission design) to ensure model fidelity and consistency.
  • Generate technical documentation, simulation reports, and visualizations to communicate findings and support design decisions.
  • Support trade studies and design reviews by providing modeling insights into performance impacts of design changes.

Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of professional technical experience
  • Active Top Secret/SCI w/Poly Clearance.
  • 3+ years of experience in modeling and simulation for aerospace or space systems.
  • Strong understanding of sensor phenomenology --such as optical, infrared, or radar systems --and associated modeling methods.
  • Intermediate Python programming experience, demonstrated through hands-on experience with tasks such as data manipulation, automation, and development of Python-based solutions. Experience with libraries such as NumPy, SciPy, pandas, and matplotlib is beneficial.
  • Ability to communicate technical results clearly in written and verbal formats.

SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

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