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Flight Simulation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archer

Senior Engineer, Modeling & Simulation

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$122.80K - $173.60K/yr

Develop Flight Simulation Physics Models for eVTOL aircraft * Support vehicle level trade studies * Update system electrical, thermal, and performance model fidelity based on lab and flight test data ...

Archer

Program Manager, Flight Sciences

San Jose, CA · On-site

$172.80K - $216K/yr

This is a highly cross-functional role that ensures technical, schedule, and cost alignment for analysis, simulation, and test activities that directly enable vehicle performance, flight readiness ...

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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 May 31, 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 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 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.

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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,601 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Senior Engineer, Modeling & Simulation

Senior Engineer, Modeling & Simulation

Archer

San Jose, CA • Hybrid

$122.80K - $173.60K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

What you'll do: 

  • Develop Flight Simulation Physics Models for eVTOL aircraft
  • Support vehicle level trade studies 
  • Update system electrical, thermal, and performance model fidelity based on lab and flight test data to support vehicle certification
  • Work with internal and external suppliers to integrate their systems into our comprehensive vehicle simulation
  • Support design and analysis activities to verify business and regulatory requirements will be met with high confidence 

What you need:

  • BS in an Engineering discipline required. MS or PhD in an Engineering discipline highly desirable
  • 5+ years of multi-physics simulation experience
  • Expert in numerical modeling and dynamic simulation of complex physical systems, especially aerospace and mechanical systems
  • High level of expertise with developing vehicle simulations in Simulink. MATLAB, Python and SimScape expertise is also desirable.
  • Experience with model testing, linearization, and refinement using continuous integration environments
  • Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
  • Experience in a fast-paced design environment

Bonus Qualifications:

  • An unhealthy obsession with developing physical models that match bench and flight test data
  • Experience modeling electric or hybrid powertrains
  • Numerical Optimization experience
  • Familiar with 14 CFR Part 33 and RTCA DO-311A
  • Experience using simulation for certification credit
  • Experience applying system identification techniques to aircraft or rotorcraft
  • Experience flight testing piloted and/or autonomous aircraft or rotorcraft
  • Piloting experience (aircraft or rotorcraft)

At Archer we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our business. We drive a pay-for-performance culture and reward performance that supports the Company's business strategy. For this position we are targeting a base pay between $122,800.00-$173,600.00. Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Archer is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities, and those with sincerely held religious beliefs. Applicants who may require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should provide their name and contact information to Archer's People Team at people@archer.com. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

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