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Flight Simulator Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hardware Engineer (Flight Simulator)

Orlando, FL · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

Flight Simulator Hardware Engineer - Air & Commercial Solutions (ACS) Program Location : Orlando, FL(Hybrid) Duration : Long term Engineer will be a Hardware Engineering on a development team that ...

Flight Simulator Hardware Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

We have an outstanding Contract position for a Flight Simulator Hardware Engineer to join a leading Company located in the Orlando, FL surrounding area. **US Citizenship is required.** The hired ...

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Flight Simulator Engineer information

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$46.5K

$118.5K

$260.5K

How much do flight simulator engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulator engineer in the United States is $118,512.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight simulator engineer?

A Flight Simulator Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and troubleshooting flight simulation systems used for pilot training and aircraft testing. They work with hardware and software to ensure the simulator accurately replicates real-world flight conditions. Their role involves programming, integrating avionics systems, and performing regular maintenance to ensure reliability. These engineers collaborate with pilots, instructors, and aeronautical engineers to enhance training effectiveness.

What does a flight simulator engineer do?

A typical day for a Flight Simulator Engineer involves developing, testing, and maintaining advanced simulation software and hardware to ensure realistic and reliable flight training experiences. You’ll often collaborate with other engineers, pilots, and instructors to address technical issues, implement software updates, and fine-tune system performance. Routine tasks may include troubleshooting simulator malfunctions, integrating new aircraft models, and documenting system changes for compliance and future reference. The work environment is dynamic and multidisciplinary, offering the chance to use both technical expertise and teamwork to support critical training operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight simulator engineer?

To thrive as a Flight Simulator Engineer, you need a strong background in computer engineering, software development, systems integration, and a relevant degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with simulation platforms (such as X-Plane, FlightGear, or CAE platforms), programming languages (like C++ or Python), and knowledge of avionics systems are highly valuable, along with certifications such as CompTIA or manufacturer-specific quals. Strong troubleshooting abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for collaborating with pilots, engineers, and training staff. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring simulators accurately replicate flight conditions, support pilot training, and meet strict safety and regulatory standards.

Are flight simulator engineers in demand?

Flight simulator engineers are in steady demand due to the aviation industry's need for advanced training tools and simulation technology. They typically require skills in software development, systems integration, and familiarity with simulation hardware, with employment opportunities available in aerospace, defense, and training organizations.

How much do flight simulator engineers make?

Flight simulator engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in simulation software and hardware may earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace or defense industries.

How to become a flight simulator engineer?

To become a flight simulator engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science, or a related field is required. Relevant skills include programming, systems integration, and knowledge of flight dynamics, with experience in simulation software and hardware being advantageous. Certifications in aviation or engineering can also enhance job prospects.

What cities are hiring for Flight Simulator Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Flight Simulator Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulator Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Flight Simulator Engineer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Flight Simulator Engineer jobs?

The top employers for Flight Simulator Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Flight Simulator Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Flight Simulator Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Flight Simulator Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,512 per year, or $57 per hour.

Flight Simulator Engineer at American Airlines Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Carlsbad Tech
Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Flight Simulator Engineer – American Airlines, Charlotte, NC

Responsible for designing, fabricating, installing, and maintaining training equipment and systems in full-motion simulators. Ensures simulator compliance with FAA Part 60 and other regulatory requirements, performs operational checks, preventive maintenance, and participates in system evaluations and software programming.

Technical Functions
  • Enter all areas of a full motion simulator, including climbing and descending steep and narrow passageways, working in tight spaces, or stooping, and sometimes carrying heavy equipment or tools.
  • Access maintenance areas using stairs or ladders.
  • Design, fabricate, document, and install training equipment to include parts or complete pieces of equipment.
  • Assist in the development and enhancement of trainers and systems.
  • Install design modifications from approved simulator engineering releases and rectify obvious simulator discrepancies, as assigned.
  • Develop and install lesson plans, as assigned.
  • Design relevant hardware and software, as assigned.
  • Participate in the development of new or modified equipment design specifications with vendors and other Company personnel, as assigned.
  • Perform modifications to maintain equipment operating requirements.
  • Implement engineering change orders and bulletins to advise flight training staff on the operation of training equipment.
  • Perform operational checks and preventative maintenance in compliance with Company procedures and vendor requirements.
  • Evaluate simulator flight functions.
  • Assist in and perform Qualification Test Guide (QTG) modifications and FAA evaluations.
  • Assist with system evaluation, testing, and programming of software in line with vendor and regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain operating requirements and regulatory compliance of flight simulators, flight simulator sub-systems and components, flight simulator visual systems, flight simulator visual database modeling, cockpit procedure trainers, and ground school training devices used for flight training.
  • Perform maintenance of miscellaneous audio and visual equipment when assigned.
  • Monitor the performance of flight simulator systems.
  • Research and evaluate vendor sources and parts required for equipment maintenance and repair.
  • Take corrective action to prevent and/or minimize the shutdown time of equipment and to maximize uptime of equipment.
  • Maintain relevant stock, manuals, and documentation systems.
  • Instruct and train other employees concerning training equipment operations and procedures.
  • Lead other personnel in the modification, assembly, and maintenance of flight simulator equipment.
  • Work with flight/in-flight crews, maintenance personnel, vendors, and instructors.
  • Generate and update technical documentation (e.g., instruction manuals, wire lists, schematic drawings, mechanical assembly drawings).
  • Comply with all FAA Part 60 requirements in the maintenance of simulators.
  • Transport tools and equipment throughout work area.
General Functions
  • Perform all functions in accordance with safety procedures and policies.
  • Coordinate with other employees and stakeholders to accomplish work tasks.
  • Report to position on time, as scheduled, and at assigned station or location, including mandatory overtime requirements, varying shifts, weekends, and holidays.
  • Complete all required job-relevant training, including vendor training.
  • Adhere to government (e.g., DOT, FAA, TSA, EPA, OSHA) regulations.
  • Adhere to company policies, procedures, and performance standards.
  • Follow instructions or receive assignments from management.
  • Perform duties that require general safety awareness (e.g., when working in an area with moving vehicles).
  • Operate material handling equipment, including forklifts, cranes, etc.
  • Use relevant tools and test equipment to complete work.
  • Maintain required forms, records, and equipment logs.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum education of a two-year degree in an accredited electronics school or a related technology (computer science, mathematics, electronics, or electrical engineering) or equivalent experience.
  • Two years' experience in simulator technology preferred.
  • Must be able to work shifts, weekends, and holidays.
  • Knowledge of mainframe, mini, and personal computers required.
  • Knowledge of programming languages Fortran, C, and C++ highly desirable.
  • Ability to read, write, fluently speak and understand the English language.
Benefits
  • Travel perks to 365 destinations on more than 6,800 daily flights across the global network.
  • Health, dental, prescription, and vision benefits starting on day one, plus virtual doctor visits and flexible spending accounts.
  • Wellness programs providing tools, resources, and support.
  • 401(k) program available upon hire, with employer contributions after one year (dependent on workgroup).
  • Employee Assistance Program, pet insurance, and discounts on hotels, cars, cruises, and more.
Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action Policy

American Airlines maintains a continuing policy of nondiscrimination in employment. It is our policy to provide equal opportunity and access for all persons, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or other protected veteran, in all phases of the employment process and in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship. Please contact Accommodations@aa.com should you wish to request an accommodation.

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