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Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Flight Sciences Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

We are looking for software engineers, hardware engineers, roboticists, and front-end mobile ... Flight Simulation Development: * Design, implement, and maintain high-fidelity flight simulation ...

Grid Aero

Flight Physics Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Flight Physics Engineer Company: Grid.aero Location: Onsite 4 days/week [San Leandro, CA] About ... You will also support the modeling of the aircraft for simulation and validation of physics ...

Grid Aero

Flight Physics Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Aerodynamic & Simulation Modeling: 3-5+ years of experience in aerodynamic modeling in support of aircraft design and configuration development, including generating dynamic aero-models and ...

Pae

HLS GN&C Flight Simulation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Our long-term client relationship with NASA has led to a need for a Human Landing System (HLS) Flight Control Simulation Engineer with a JETS II teammate company, Aerodyne Industries. This position ...

Amentum

HLS GN&C Flight Simulation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Our long-term client relationship with NASA has led to a need for a Human Landing System (HLS) Flight Control Simulation Engineer with a JETS II teammate company, Aerodyne Industries. This position ...

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How much do freelance flight simulator engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance flight simulator engineer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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 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.

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Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Flight Simulator Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

HLS GN&C Flight Simulation Engineer

Houston, TX • On-site

Mclaurin Aerospace
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Mclaurin Aerospaceexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? If you are, we need you!
We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for NASA's pursuits in deep space exploration.
We have an exciting opportunity for a HLS GN&C Flight Simulation Engineer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX.
If selected you will:
  • Provide math modeling and simulation development of guidance and flight control algorithms for automatic and piloted manual flight of lunar landers
  • Develop formal math model and simulation documentation
  • Identify team simulation tasks, resolve simulation related issues and assist team members.
  • Directly interact with the NASA customers, along with various NASA support contractors, during technical meetings and working groups.
  • Perform other duties as required

Qualifications:
This position has been posted at multiple levels. Depending on the candidate's experience, requirements, and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised.
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in Engineering with experience in the field or in a related area.
  • Experience in the development of flight control systems for aerospace vehicles
  • Experience developing, verifying, and validating GN&C math models and 6-DOF simulations
  • Experience with Linux, C/C++ and Python
  • Experience modeling and analyzing dynamic systems in the frequency domain.
  • Familiarity with system identification and building linear models from time-domain measurements.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize tasks in order to meet deadlines and schedules with limited supervision
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills and the ability to work in a team environment consisting of NASA civil servants and various contractor employees

Preferred Qualifications:
  • MS in Aerospace Engineering with on a focus on GN&C and flight controls
  • Knowledge of GN&C principles with a background in flight dynamics/orbital mechanics
  • Knowledge in the design, analysis, and implementation of navigation algorithms
  • Experience contributing to large, multi-language simulation and architectures and ability to learn unfamiliar code bases.
  • Experience with GIT configuration control tool.

Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Positive work-life balance
  • 100% Employer paid insurance including: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • 11 paid holidays annually
  • Generous PTO
  • 401k after 12 months of service with employer match
  • Education assistance
  • Relocation assistance (if applicable)

Mclaurin is a unique organization with a special focus on combining the best features of research and industry in order to foster innovation. Our organization strongly supports research, publication, and engagement with the academic community. We encourage our employees to remain on the cutting edge of new developments in their respective disciplines.
US Citizenship and the ability to pass a comprehensive security background investigation is required.
Mclaurin is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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