1

Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer Jobs in Oregon

OR

$190K - $260K/yr

The Role As a Principal GNC engineer, you will be a core driver of the overall spacecraft GNC ... flight software in an integrated environment, leveraging 6-DOF simulation and HITL testing.

OR · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Contribute to simulation, integration, and flight test activities to validate autonomy software in ... Degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, robotics, or a related field. * BS and 1+ or MS ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$108K - $142K/yr

We design and build flight systems for spacecraft, habitats, and suits, advancing systems that ... just simulate. * Strong command of test instrumentation, data acquisition, and analysis (Excel ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Wilsonville, OR

$108K - $142K/yr

We design and build flight systems for spacecraft, habitats, and suits, advancing systems that ... just simulate. * Strong command of test instrumentation, data acquisition, and analysis (Excel ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$108K - $142K/yr

We design and build flight systems for spacecraft, habitats, and suits, advancing systems that ... just simulate. * Strong command of test instrumentation, data acquisition, and analysis (Excel ...

Staff Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$180K - $240K/yr

You've worked in an experimental R&D flight test environment with general civil certified or ... Work across the safety, hardware, simulation, and software teams to capture, document, and ...

Staff Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$180K - $240K/yr

You've worked in an experimental R&D flight test environment with general civil certified or ... Work across the safety, hardware, simulation, and software teams to capture, document, and ...

OR · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

You are an experienced engineer with a background in autonomous systems, aviation, and robotics who ... Support simulation, integration, and flight test activities to validate real-world performance.

Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer information

What are some common challenges a Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer might face when working on multiple client projects?

As a Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer, one of the main challenges is managing diverse client requirements and ensuring simulator compatibility with various hardware and software platforms. Each project may involve different aircraft models, simulation software, or integration needs, requiring flexibility and quick learning. Additionally, effective communication and clear documentation are crucial when collaborating remotely with clients and their technical teams. Balancing multiple deadlines and maintaining high-quality standards across projects are also key aspects of the role.

What does a Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer do?

A Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer designs, develops, maintains, and troubleshoots software and hardware systems that replicate real-world flight experiences for training or entertainment purposes. They work independently or on contract to create realistic flight environments, integrate hardware components like controls and displays, and ensure the accuracy of flight models. Their work may involve collaborating with aviation professionals, testing simulator performance, and updating systems to reflect changes in aircraft technology or regulations. Freelance engineers often serve a range of clients, from flight schools to game developers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer, you need expertise in software development, aeronautical engineering principles, and simulation technology, typically supported by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with simulation platforms like Microsoft Flight Simulator SDK, X-Plane, or proprietary systems, as well as programming languages such as C++ and Python, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and effective client communication are standout soft skills in this freelance role. These competencies are vital to deliver high-quality simulation solutions, meet client expectations, and adapt to diverse project requirements in a specialized and evolving field.

What is the difference between Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer vs Flight Simulator Technician?

AspectFreelance Flight Simulator EngineerFlight Simulator Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications, engineering backgroundTechnical certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentIndependent projects, client sites, remote consultingSimulation centers, maintenance facilities
Employer/IndustryFreelance, aviation training, simulation providersSimulation centers, airlines, military
Search/Comparison IntentDesign, customize, troubleshoot flight simulators independentlyMaintain, repair, and operate flight simulators

The main difference is that Freelance Flight Simulator Engineers focus on designing and customizing simulators independently, often working on specific projects for clients. In contrast, Flight Simulator Technicians primarily handle maintenance, repairs, and operational support within simulation facilities. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulator Engineer jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Flight Simulator Engineer jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer jobs in Oregon? For Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Principal Guidance, Navigation, & Control (GNC) Engineer

K2 Space

OR

$190K - $260K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

The Role
 
As a Principal GNC engineer, you will be a core driver of the overall spacecraft GNC architecture. You will execute detailed trade studies to find new and novel ways to implement the spacecraft's guidance, attitude control, and attitude and orbit estimation systems. You will anticipate company needs and stand-up infrastructure to support the core and future business.
 
In the first 3 months, you will own and execute the Verification and Validation plan for the GNC stack, driving the system to flight readiness via a robust and thorough analysis of vehicle performance in both nominal and off nominal environments. This push for flight readiness will motivate thorough analysis, leading to updates to both the GNC stack and the K2 6-DOF simulation. The expectation is that all GNC team members commit code to the 6-DOF sim as well as owning a portion of the GNC flight software.
 
In the first 6 months, you will support launch and on orbit operations of the first full demonstration of the K2 spacecraft bus - the Mega. In parallel, you will scope and support the block 2 upgrades of the GNC stack and 6-DOF sim, taking lessons learned from on orbit operations to increase the fidelity of the simulation and the vehicle performance of the GNC stack.
 
In the first year, you will own the planning and development of future tooling to support GNC in defining vehicle level capabilities, especially for future missions. This includes mission design, precision pointing and controls analysis, constellation development, and 6-DOF simulation development.
 
Responsibilities
  • Work with other engineering leads to set the direction and develop novel vehicle architecture
  • Develop novel algorithms for precise pointing of very large, flexible structures in earth orbit and beyond
  • Develop novel slewing algorithms of very large, flexible structures in earth orbit and beyond
  • Develop simulation and modeling tools to support vehicle and GNC trade studies. This includes mission design, controls analysis, and 6-DOF simulation development.
  • Integral to building the GNC organization by recruiting, hiring, and mentoring other engineers 
Qualifications
  • Experience with GNC actuator or sensor sizing, selection, and system design
  • Experience with implementing attitude control and/or estimation algorithms on spacecraft
  • Experience with verification and validation of GNC flight software in an integrated environment, leveraging 6-DOF simulation and HITL testing.
  • Experience with early-stage spacecraft conceptual design, i.e. "clean sheet" design work
  • Experience with Python, Julia, C/C++, or Matlab for algorithm development, implementation, and simulation
Nice to Have
  • Experience with control algorithm development
  • Experience with reaction wheel, control moment gyroscope, or thruster sizing and algorithm implementation
  • Experience with navigation, specifically Extended Kalman Filters
  • Experience with trajectory analysis, modeling, and mission design
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Base salary range for this role is $190,000 - $260,000 + equity in the company
  • Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level
  • Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks

K2 Space logo

About K2 Space

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2022