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Flight Simulation Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ARA

Staff Missile Test Engineer

Indian Head, MD · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Engineering knowledge and experience in real-time software development, missile/flight simulation and software models, interface programming (Ethernet, serial, parallel input/output, specialized ...

Lynk

Flight Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary The Flight Software Engineer at Lynk will be developing flight software applications ... simulates orbit operations. You will also be responsible for building the telemetry and ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsFlight Simulation JobsFlight Simulation Jobs in Washington

Flight Simulation information

See Washington salary details

$12.5K

$76.6K

$137.6K

How much do flight simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulation in Washington is $76,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,800.00 and $90,000.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulation jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Flight Simulation jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Flight Simulation jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Flight Simulation job openings:
Flight Simulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Simulation job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,565 per year, or $36.8 per hour.
Modeling and Simulation Systems Engineer - Level 3/4

Modeling and Simulation Systems Engineer - Level 3/4

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Mclean, VA

$129K - $193K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 356 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Space Systems, Multi-Domain Operations, and Missile Defense Integration Business Unit (BU) has an exciting career opportunity for a Principal/Sr. Principal Modeling and Simulation Systems Engineer - Level 3 or 4 to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals. This position will be in Colorado Springs, CO.

Position Overview:

The Systems Engineer - Level 3 or 4 will support a growing portfolio of programs and IRADs that focus on missile defense, space, and intelligence and will support various modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) project teams performing modeling and simulation engineering utilizing government tools and standards.

Essential Functions:

  • This position will specifically focus on the development of models and simulation using Government Off-the-Shelf (GOTS) tools like AFSIM in a classified environment.

Seeking candidates who find satisfaction in working on challenging and diverse assignments in collaborative settings across all levels.

This requisition may be filled at a higher grade based on qualifications listed below.

This requisition may be filled at either a Principal Modeling and Simulation Systems Engineer - Level 3 or a Sr. Principal Modeling and Simulation Systems Engineer - Level 4.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Basic Qualifications for Principal Modeling and Simulation Systems Engineer - Leve 3: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline from an accredited university and5 years of related work experience, or a Master's Degree in STEM and 3 years of related work experience, or 1 year of related work experience with a PhD in STEM.

  • Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Modeling and Simulation Systems Engineer - Level 4: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline from an accredited university and8 years of related work experience, or a Master's Degree in STEM and 6 years of related work experience, or 4 years of related work experience with a PhD in STEM.

  • Applicants must have a current, active in-scope DoD-issuedTop Secret security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) eligibility at the time of application, which is required to start

  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 10% to support business needs

  • Experience utilizing modeling and simulation tools like AFSIM, Ansys STK, or a similar modeling and simulation framework

  • Experience mentoring and developing junior-level engineers

  • Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a team setting

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's Degree or PhD in a highly technical STEM discipline

  • Experience writing or reviewing complex technical white papers or dissertations

  • Experience with modeling behaviors of space assets, such as orbital maneuvers

  • Experience using the Advanced Framework for Simulation, Integration, and Modeling (AFSIM), Ansys Systems Tool Kit (STK), or a similar mission-level modeling and simulation framework

  • Experience supporting proposals for capture efforts

  • Experience performing operations research activities such as mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and optimization

  • Experience conducting trade studies and familiarity with trade study methodologies

  • Experience with formal verification and validation processes

  • Experience using agile development methodologies

Primary Level Salary Range: $103,600.00 - $155,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $129,300.00 - $193,900.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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