1

Internship Flight Simulator Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Internship Flight Simulator Engineer information

See salary details

$11

$19

$29

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship flight simulator engineer in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an internship flight simulator engineer do?

An Internship Flight Simulator Engineer assists in the development, testing, and maintenance of flight simulator systems used for pilot training and research. They typically work under the guidance of experienced engineers, helping to integrate hardware and software, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure the accuracy and realism of simulation environments. Interns may also participate in creating simulation scenarios, updating system databases, and supporting the overall performance and reliability of the simulators. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in aviation technology and engineering practices.

What types of projects or tasks can an internship flight simulator engineer expect to work on during their internship?

As an Internship Flight Simulator Engineer, you can expect to be involved in tasks such as assisting with the development, testing, and troubleshooting of flight simulation software and hardware. Interns often help create and refine simulation scenarios, support maintenance and calibration of simulator equipment, and collaborate with senior engineers on integrating new technologies or features. You'll likely work closely with both engineering and pilot training teams, gaining exposure to real-world aviation standards and practices. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation for understanding both the technical and operational aspects of flight simulation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship flight simulator engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Flight Simulator Engineer, you need a solid understanding of aerospace engineering principles, programming fundamentals (such as C++ or Python), and a relevant degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with flight simulation software (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, X-Plane), hardware integration, and possibly certifications in relevant engineering tools are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help interns excel in collaborative and technically demanding environments. These skills ensure accurate simulation development, smooth troubleshooting, and successful integration of flight systems, which are critical for realistic and safe pilot training.

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

AspectInternship Flight Simulator EngineerFlight Simulator Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in aerospace, aviation, or engineeringTechnical diploma or certification in avionics or maintenance
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development in labs or simulation centersMaintenance, troubleshooting, and repair in simulation facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in aerospace companies, flight training centers, and defense contractorsCommon in aviation training centers and military simulation units
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in flight simulation developmentLooking into technical support or maintenance roles in flight simulation

In summary, an Internship Flight Simulator Engineer focuses on designing and testing simulation systems, often as part of an educational or entry-level program, while a Flight Simulator Technician handles the maintenance and repair of existing simulation equipment. Both roles are essential in the flight simulation industry but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

More about Internship Flight Simulator Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Internship Flight Simulator Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Internship 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:

What states have the most Internship Flight Simulator Engineer jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Internship Flight Simulator Engineer jobs?

For Internship Flight Simulator Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Internship Flight Simulator Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Specialist Engineer, Flight Simulators

Tustin, CA • On-site

Virgin Galactic, Inc.
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$136K - $207K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and deploy electrical, mechanical, and computer systems for flight simulators.

  • Execute the physical build-out and testing of simulator systems, including wiring, prototyping, and integration of real aircraft hardware.

  • Contribute to the design and integration of visual systems, control loading systems, and network hardware for flight simulators.


Virgin Galactic rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

You will be an individual contributor with Flight Simulator subject matter expertise within the Avionics Department. Your focus is on systems design, development, and deployment of Virgin Galactic's engineering and pilot-training Flight Simulators for our SpaceShip and Mothership aircraft. This will include being a primary contributor to the design of electrical, mechanical, and computer systems for these simulators, as well as executing the physical build-out and testing of these systems. The ideal candidate is multi-disciplined in the many areas of technology, engineering, and aviation that factor into development of piloted flight simulators with a strong desire to be hands-on in all aspects of system development, construction, and operation. You will report to the Lead Flight Simulator Engineer.
Responsibilities
  • Electrical design of flight simulators
    • Adaptation of real aircraft electrical components into simulator
    • Wire harnesses and electrical sub-assemblies
    • Custom PCB design and fabrication
  • Mechanical design of flight simulators, to include:
    • Simulator cockpit and pilot interfaces
    • Integration of real aircraft hardware into simulator
    • Replication of real aircraft cockpit interfaces
    • Prototyping of real aircraft cockpit interfaces in support of real aircraft design
    • Control loading system integration
  • Computer system design, to include:
    • Computer hardware selection and integration
    • Network hardware selection and integration
  • Visual system design, to include:
    • System and hardware requirements definition and selection
    • System deployment and integration

Required Skills and Experience
  • Must have a B.S. in Computer Science or related technical field from an accredited university
  • 12 years of industry experience in technology and/or aerospace
  • 8 years of experience with piloted Flight Simulator systems
  • Electrical experience, to include:
    • Expert at troubleshooting complex electronic systems
    • Expert at electrical power system design for low voltage, non-flying, DC systems
    • Basic PCB design and manufacturing
    • Familiar with legacy analog-type electronic systems
  • Data systems experience, to include:
    • Familiarity with IT network hardware and integration
    • Familiarity with serial communication protocols (CAN, RS-232, ARINC-429, and similar)
  • Proficiency with simulator visual systems and image generation platforms
    • Specifically with front-projection screen systems and Quantum3D image generators
  • Proficiency with CAD tools for general 3D design of simple mechanical assemblies and systems
  • Familiarity with aerospace standards and strong ability to interpret and follow standards
  • Electronics lab environment experience with diligence to best practices
    • Expected to be a model of best practices and mentor to others
  • Basic software skills to understand and debug code
  • Organized and deterministic in work

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Modeling and Simulation experience with respect to replicating aircraft systems behaviors for use towards pilot-training
  • Expertise in 3D printing for both quick turn prototyping and long-term reliability use cases
    • Experience in maintaining 3D printers
  • Practical experience with hands-on work, to include:
    • Assembly and repair of PCBs
    • Assembly of electrical wiring harnesses
    • Assembly of complex electrical assemblies
    • Hand and power tool use
    • General shop tools use
    • Basic metal and woodworking skills
  • Willingness and ability to lead and supervise work performed by technicians
  • Familiarity with Mission Control Room systems and, specifically, IADS

#LI-AB1
The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $136,063.00-$207,596.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits
Who We Are
Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. We are making the dream of space travel a reality, delivering spaceflight at an unprecedented frequency, with the development of next generation space vehicles .
Export Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here .
EEO Statement
Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Drug Free Workplace
Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace. All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing.
Phoenix Employment Requirements
For individuals seeking employment at our Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility, employment is contingent upon you obtaining and maintaining a TSA authorized security badge. This includes initial and annual mandatory background checks that are governed by TSA, and conducted by the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport badging office.

What Virgin Galactic employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom