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Lead Simulation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

May working independently or lead a small team of engineers. Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements. Design a simulation architecture, including internal and external interfaces ...

Perform QAQC peer reviews for co-simulation models where he or she is not the lead analyst. Guide ... Programming skills (Python, C/C++, MATLAB, or similar) for automation and data analysis are a plus.

May working independently or lead a small team of engineers. * Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements. * Design a simulation architecture, including internal and external interfaces ...

About the Role We are seeking a lead thermal simulation engineer to help accelerate the design and development of next-generation robotic systems through modeling, simulation, and analysis. You will ...

New

The Simulation Engineer 3 is an advanced engineering individual contributor responsible for ... Lead proof-of-concept activities, pilot implementations, technology assessments, and vendor ...

Simulation Engineer 3

Southfield, MI · On-site

$107K - $133K/yr

The Simulation Engineer 3 is an advanced engineering individual contributor responsible for ... Lead proof-of-concept activities, pilot implementations, technology assessments, and vendor ...

Lead CFD simulation strategy across Hayward's product portfolio, including residential and ... Act as a technical advisor and subject matter expert to engineering leadership ...

We are seeking an experienced Simulation Engineer with manufacturing experience, specializing in ... Lead the development and maintenance of digital twin models representing manufacturing processes.

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Showing results 1-20

Lead Simulation Engineer information

See salary details

$42.5K

$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead simulation engineer in the United States is $123,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lead Simulation Engineer vs Mechanical Simulation Engineer?

AspectLead Simulation EngineerMechanical Simulation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications in simulation softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, certifications in CAD and simulation tools
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, R&D departments, engineering firmsManufacturing, product design, automotive, aerospace
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries requiring complex simulations and team leadershipCommon in mechanical design, product testing, and development

The main difference between a Lead Simulation Engineer and a Mechanical Simulation Engineer lies in their scope and responsibilities. The Lead Simulation Engineer typically oversees simulation projects, manages teams, and ensures project delivery, while the Mechanical Simulation Engineer focuses on performing detailed mechanical simulations to support design and testing. Both roles require strong technical skills and familiarity with simulation software, but the Lead role involves more leadership and project management duties.

How does a Lead Simulation Engineer typically interact with cross-functional teams during a project?

A Lead Simulation Engineer frequently collaborates with design, testing, and product development teams to ensure simulation models align with project requirements and real-world parameters. They participate in meetings to gather input, clarify technical constraints, and provide updates on simulation progress. This collaborative approach helps identify potential issues early and ensures simulation results are actionable for decision-making. Clear communication and coordination are key to integrating simulation outcomes into the overall engineering workflow.

What is a Lead Simulation Engineer?

A Lead Simulation Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for overseeing the development, execution, and improvement of simulation models and systems. They lead teams of engineers in creating simulations used for testing, analysis, and optimization of products or processes in industries such as automotive, aerospace, or manufacturing. Their role involves project management, technical guidance, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of simulation results. Lead Simulation Engineers often collaborate with design, development, and testing teams to drive innovation and efficiency. They also play a key part in mentoring junior engineers and standardizing simulation methodologies.

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

To thrive as a Lead Simulation Engineer, you need expertise in physics-based modeling, systems engineering, and proficiency in simulation methodologies, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS, or similar platforms, and often certifications in relevant software, is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you guide teams and convey complex technical concepts effectively. These abilities ensure accurate simulations, effective project execution, and successful collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
More about Lead Simulation Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead Simulation Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Simulation Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Lead Simulation Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.
Principal Simulation Engineer

Principal Simulation Engineer

Draper

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$95K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

A Principal System Modeling & Simulation Engineer designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems. Simulation applications range from high-level behavioral simulations for visualization and evaluation of system concepts to high-fidelity real-time simulations and Hardware-in-the-Loop infrastructure to support development, integration, test, and sustainment of systems and software.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
Architect, integrate, verify and validate system-level simulations in the context of a larger aerospace project life cycle.
May working independently or lead a small team of engineers.
Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
Design a simulation architecture, including internal and external interfaces, facilities, infrastructure, and models, to satisfy requirements,
Write and automate test plans.
Develop real-time hardware interfaces, integrate legacy software models, and develop new software models.
Acts as a subject matter expert in System Modeling and Simulation engineering.
Integrate 3D visualization tools, and
Development and maintain an in house real-time software framework.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Experience with analytical methods, approaches, and data visualization.
Excellent mathematical skills.
Ability to collaborate within a diverse and multidisciplinary team.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to quickly understand and integrate new software APIs
Ability to efficiently triage, debug, and fix software and hardware integration issues
Ability to develop systems with human factors, UI/UX, usability requirements.
Knowledge and familiarity with aerospace systems and related sciences.
Education
Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science,Mathematics, or related field. PhD. preferred..
Experience
7-10 years of Systems Engineering or related experience.
Professional software development experience in a multi-disciplinary, team setting
Significant experience with C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink.

Additional Job Description:

Experienced software and systems engineer able to architect, integrate, and verify and validate components of a simulation in the context of a larger aerospace project life cycle.

Activities may include developing simulation requirements, writing and automating test plans, developing real-time hardware interfaces, integrating legacy software models, developing new software models with subject matter experts, integrating 3D visualization tools, and development and maintenance of an in house real time software framework.

Required Qualifications:

  • Professional software development experience in a multi-disciplinary, team setting
  • Significant experience with C/C++ and Matlab/Simulink
  • Ability to quickly understand and integrate new software APIs
  • Ability to efficiently triage, debug, and fix software\hardware integration issues
  • Experience developing systems where human factors, UI/UX, and usability trade off with engineering and business demands
  • Knowledge and familiarity with aerospace systems and related sciences

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proficient in C/C++ development in a Linux environment (Bash, GCC, GNU Make, GDB, etc.)
  • Experience with communications protocols and hardware drivers
  • Familiarity with Matlab/Simulink
  • Familiarity with GNC systems and 6DOF dynamics
  • Experience in presenting test results to customers
  • Experience with engineering team leadership

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$95,000.00 - $245,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.