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Live In Aircraft Simulator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Simulation Engineer

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$90K - $110K/yr

Simulation Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of ...

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Live In Aircraft Simulator information

What is a live in aircraft simulator?

A Live In Aircraft Simulator is a highly realistic training environment designed to replicate the experience of living and operating within an actual aircraft. These simulators are often used by pilots, cabin crew, and other aviation professionals for hands-on training in emergency procedures, daily operations, and teamwork. The 'live in' aspect means trainees may spend extended periods inside the simulator, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in realistic scenarios. This type of simulator helps improve safety, preparedness, and confidence before working on actual aircraft.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a live in aircraft simulator operator?

To thrive as an Aircraft Simulator Technician, you need a strong background in electronics, computer systems, and mechanical troubleshooting, often supported by a degree or certification in avionics or a related technical field. Familiarity with flight simulator software, diagnostic tools, and maintenance management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure simulators operate safely and accurately, supporting effective pilot training and operational efficiency.

What are some typical challenges faced when working as a live in aircraft simulator operator, and how can they be managed?

As a Live In Aircraft Simulator operator, one common challenge is adapting to rapidly changing training scenarios and responding effectively to the needs of both trainee pilots and instructors. This role often requires flexible scheduling, long hours, and close attention to simulator maintenance and software updates. Collaborating closely with technical teams and flight instructors is crucial to ensure training sessions run smoothly. Staying organized and maintaining strong communication skills can help manage these demands and contribute to a positive training environment.

What is the difference between Live In Aircraft Simulator vs Flight Instructor?

AspectLive In Aircraft SimulatorFlight Instructor
CredentialsTypically requires pilot certifications and simulator trainingRequires pilot licenses and instructor certifications
Work EnvironmentSimulated cockpit environment, often in training centers or flight schoolsReal aircraft or simulators, flying with students in various locations
Employer & IndustryFlight training centers, airlines, military training facilitiesFlight schools, airlines, private training companies

Both roles involve aviation training but differ mainly in environment and scope. Live In Aircraft Simulators focus on simulated training environments, while Flight Instructors often teach in real aircraft or simulators with students. Understanding these differences helps aspiring aviation professionals choose the right career path.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Simulator jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Aircraft Simulator jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Live In Aircraft Simulator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Live In Aircraft Simulator job openings:

Staff Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R4983)

Shield AI

Washington, DC

$182K - $274K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

This position is ideal for an individual who thrives on solving complex integration challenges that span hardware, software, and systems engineering. A successful candidate will be skilled at deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms, preparing systems for flight, and troubleshooting mission-critical issues in both lab and field environments. The role is highly dynamic, requiring hands-on experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, real-world test conditions. 
 
Shield AI is committed to developing cutting-edge autonomy for unmanned aircraft operating across all Department of Defense (DoD) domains, including air, sea, and land. Our Flight Integration Engineers are essential to bridging the gap between R&D and deployment, ensuring that autonomous systems function reliably and effectively when and where they are needed most.
What you'll do:
  • System Integration & Deployment - Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces.
  • Pre-flight Preparation - Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness.
  • On-site Flight Test Support - Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints.
  • Hardware/Software Debugging - Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments.
  • Flight Data Capture & Analysis - Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements.
  • Collaboration Across Teams - Work closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission-critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly.
  • Continuous Improvement - Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles.
  • Support Certification and Compliance - Assist with documentation and system-level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense-relevant environments.
  • Travel Requirement - Members of this team typically travel around 30-40% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events).
Required Qualifications:
  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience 
  • Typically requires a minimum of 7 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 5 years and a Master's degree; or 4 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience. 
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS).
  • Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics.
  • Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS).
  • Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises.
  • Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
  • Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance. 
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns.
  • Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines.
  • Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging, or avionics bring-up.
  • Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing.
  • Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews.
  • Experience with UCI and OMS Standards.
$182,720 - $274,080 a year
#LI-ED1
#LD

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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