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Freelance Simulation Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Software Engineer III

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Join Our Team as a Software Engineer III! As a Software Engineer III , you'll be crucial in ... Perform FPGA simulation, verification, and timing analyses using vendor-specific tools (e.g ...

Software Engineer III

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Join Our Team as a Software Engineer III! As a Software Engineer III , you'll be crucial in ... Perform FPGA simulation, verification, and timing analyses using vendor-specific tools (e.g ...

As a Research Engineer, you will work closely with a systematic trading team to implement research studies, develop algorithms, and design software for trading strategy simulations. Responsibilities ...

Software Developer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$225K/yr

As a Software Developer at DRW, you will be an integral member of a dynamic team of technologists ... Trading strategy simulation software optimized for distributed computation * Large scale data ...

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

We are hiring a Senior Software Engineer to build AI platform and production systems that support advanced computer vision, perception, simulation, and mapping products. This person will own the ...

We are hiring a Senior Software Engineer to build AI platform and production systems that support advanced computer vision, perception, simulation, and mapping products. This person will own the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Freelance Simulation Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$76.2K

$142K

$202.9K

How much do freelance simulation software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance simulation software engineer in Chicago, IL is $142,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $166,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Freelance Simulation Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (such as C++, Python, or MATLAB), a solid understanding of simulation methodologies, and a relevant degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation tools like Simulink, ANSYS, or Arena, and experience with version control systems are often required. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and effective client communication distinguish top performers in this freelance role. These competencies enable the engineer to deliver accurate, efficient simulations and manage projects independently, ensuring client satisfaction and professional growth.

What are some common challenges faced by Freelance Simulation Software Engineers when managing multiple client projects?

Freelance Simulation Software Engineers often juggle several projects at once, each with unique technical requirements and deadlines. Balancing these projects can be challenging, especially when clients have shifting priorities or last-minute requests. Effective communication, clear project scoping, and robust time management are crucial to ensure client expectations are met while maintaining high-quality work. Additionally, freelancers must stay updated with the latest simulation tools and standards, which can require continuous self-directed learning.

What is the difference between Freelance Simulation Software Engineer vs Simulation Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Simulation Software EngineerSimulation Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science, engineering, or related fields; certifications are a plusSimilar educational background; certifications may enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based work often remotely or freelance platformsEmployed by companies or organizations, working in office or remote teams
Employer & Industry UsageClients across various industries like aerospace, automotive, defense; freelance platformsCompanies developing simulation software or using simulation tools internally
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance opportunities or project-based work in simulation softwareSeeking full-time or contract roles within organizations

The main difference is that a Freelance Simulation Software Engineer works independently on diverse projects, often remotely, while a Simulation Software Developer is typically employed by a company to develop and maintain simulation software as part of a team.

What does a Freelance Simulation Software Engineer do?

A Freelance Simulation Software Engineer designs, develops, and tests simulation software for various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, or manufacturing. They work independently or on contract to model real-world systems, create virtual environments, and run simulations to analyze system behaviors. Responsibilities often include coding, debugging, optimizing algorithms, and collaborating with clients to meet project requirements. Freelancers typically manage their own schedules and work with multiple clients, offering flexibility and a diverse range of project experiences.
What are the most commonly searched types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Simulation Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Simulation (Autonomy) Controls Test Engineer

Simulation (Autonomy) Controls Test Engineer

Hexagon

Mundelein, IL โ€ข On-site

$131K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Overview

Hexagonย Autonomousย Solutionsย is looking forย Simulation (Autonomy) Controls Test Engineer toย Support the onboard Autonomous Controls Team in product development of haulage vehicles.

The Company:ย Hexagon is a global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software, and autonomous technologies. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, quality, and safety across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, public sector, and mobility applications. You'll be joining over 24,000 people in 50 countries on the leading edge of your field. ย 

This position is with Hexagon Autonomous Solutions, a global technology leader, pioneering end-to-end solutions industry leaders rely on for assured positioning and autonomy on land, sea, and air. Our work touches every aspect of life, from sustainability on Earth to enabling autonomy.

The Location:Hexagon is a global company with offices around the world.ย This position is based inย Morton, Illinois.ย  Telecommuting within the US is permitted. Less than 5% domestic and international travel.

Responsibilities

As ourย Simulation (Autonomy) Controls Test Engineer,ย you would be responsiblefor:

  • Supporting the onboard Autonomous Controls Team in product development of haulage vehicles in the area of vehicle motion control.
  • Using Simulink, TruckSim, and proprietary software to simulate vehicle response of long-haul heavy vehicles using various controllers.
  • Collaborating with the controls team to tune and modify PID, LQR, MPC, and other controllers using a simulation environment.
  • Updating and verify plant models using data from the field.
  • Generating tests, test plans, and reports of iterative simulations.
  • Identifying opportunities and develop automation for the simulation and report generation environment
Qualifications

Minimum Requirements: ย  ย 

  • Master's degree or foreign equivalent in Automotive Engineering or related field
  • Three (3) years of experience as a Software Engineer, Simulation/Autonomy Controls Test Engineer, or related occupation.
  • Experience with TruckSim or CarSIM;
  • Experinece with Simulink
  • Experience with vehicle controls development and tuning: PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) Controller, LQR (Linear Quadratic Regulator), MPC (Model Predictive Control);
  • Experience designing comprehensive test plans: automated and manual tests
  • Experience with entire control system structure and deep root cause analysis.

If you require any special accommodation, please email our team athrrecruitingteam.ap@hexagon.comย and we will be pleased to follow up with you. Please do not send cover letters or resumes to this address.ย 

The Company:ย Hexagon is a global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software, and autonomous technologies. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, quality, and safety across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, public sector, and mobility applications. You'll be joining over 24,000 people in 50 countries on the leading edge of your field. ย 

This position is with Hexagon Autonomous Solutions, a global technology leader, pioneering end-to-end solutions industry leaders rely on for assured positioning and autonomy on land, sea, and air. Our work touches every aspect of life, from sustainability on Earth to enabling autonomy.

EOE/F/M/Vet/Disabledย 

Click on the links below to learn more about Equal Employment Opportunity.ย EEO Know Your Rightsย 

EEO Employee Rightsย 

EEO Pay Transparencyย 

Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources for assistance at (310) 782 -1076 ext.: 134.ย 

We are an E-verify participating employer. Click on the links below for more information about E-Verify and your right to work.ย 

E-Verify Participationย 

E-Verify Right to Workย 

Salary: $131,500 - $135,000 per year

Apply online at https://hexagon.com/about/careers Or, send resume to:ย  hrrecruitingteam.ap@hexagon.com

Ref: 00080318

Employment Type: FULL_TIME