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Missile Modeling Simulation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Missile Modeling Simulation Engineer information

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$39K

$123.4K

$190.5K

How much do missile modeling simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for missile modeling simulation engineer in the United States is $123,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $146,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a missile modeling simulation engineer?

Missile Modeling Simulation Engineers are professionals who design and develop computer-based models and simulations to test and analyze the performance of missile systems. They use advanced software tools to replicate real-world missile flight, guidance, and control scenarios, allowing for evaluation and improvement of missile designs without the need for extensive physical testing. Their work supports research, development, and operational planning in defense and aerospace industries by providing accurate predictive insights and risk assessments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a missile modeling simulation engineer?

To thrive as a Missile Modeling Simulation Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, mathematics, and physics, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB, Simulink, or C++), and experience with modeling tools and defense industry standards are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure precise modeling, accurate system analysis, and effective collaboration on complex defense projects.

What are some common challenges missile modeling simulation engineers face when validating simulation models against real-world data?

Missile Modeling Simulation Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited access to comprehensive flight test data, discrepancies between simulation assumptions and real-world operating conditions, and the need to accurately model complex physical phenomena like aerodynamics and propulsion. To address these challenges, engineers collaborate closely with test engineers, analysts, and subject matter experts, iteratively refining models based on available data and feedback. Keeping simulations up-to-date with the latest hardware and software developments is also crucial to ensure model fidelity and reliability.

What is the difference between Missile Modeling Simulation Engineer vs Missile Systems Engineer?

AspectMissile Modeling Simulation EngineerMissile Systems Engineer
Primary FocusDevelops and validates simulation models for missile performance and behaviorDesigns, integrates, and manages missile system components and overall system architecture
Required SkillsSimulation software, physics modeling, coding, aerospace engineeringSystems engineering, project management, systems integration, aerospace engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation centers, aerospace companiesDesign offices, integration facilities, defense contractors
Industry UsagePrimarily in R&D, testing, and simulation departmentsInvolved throughout missile development, testing, and deployment phases

The Missile Modeling Simulation Engineer focuses on creating and validating simulation models to predict missile performance, while the Missile Systems Engineer oversees the entire missile system design and integration process. Both roles require aerospace engineering expertise but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Missile Modeling Simulation Engineer jobs?

For Missile Modeling Simulation Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Missile Modeling Simulation 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 $123,399 per year, or $59.3 per hour.

Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Position Type: Full-time; Onsite

Position Location: Chantilly, VA

Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI CI Poly

Waypoint’s client is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Modeling & Simulation Engineer to join their team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects within the aerospace domain.

Responsibilities
  • Define modeling requirements from user needs and system architecture and develop scripts to automate scenario modeling and performance analysis.
  • Develop models of the end-to-end phenomenology chain, including generating complex EO/IR target signatures (BRDF, thermal), modeling atmospheric radiative transfer using tools like MODTRAN, and integrating realistic cloud clutter and terrain backgrounds.
  • Oversee mission-level simulation to assess ISR constellation performance.
  • Conduct trade studies on future ISR constellations.
  • Assess the resilience of specificized ISR architecture; model the space environment's impact on payload performance, including radiation effects on focal plane arrays, and analyze the vulnerability of established PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) systems to RF interference.
  • Utilize Python for model development, data analysis, and simulation execution.
  • Leverage AFSIM (or similar aerospace simulation software) for analysis and performance prediction.
  • Incorporate phenomenological modeling principles into relevant models and simulations.
Required Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Poly.
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in modeling and simulation, preferably within the aerospace industry.
  • Strong proficiency in Python programming.
  • Familiarity with AFSIM or similar aerospace simulation tools.
  • Solid understanding of orbital mechanics and space systems.
  • Experience with phenomenological models, including a demonstrated ability to model relevant physical phenomena and validate those models.
  • Experience modeling solar illumination effects, thermal emissions, Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) for material identification, and temperature dynamics of a target.
  • Experience modeling Radar Cross Section (RCS) for various frequencies and polarizations, and the signatures of active RF emitters.
  • Experience with atmospheric models (like MODTRAN or LibRadtran) to simulate absorption, scattering, turbulence (seeing effects), and path radiance.
  • Experience generating realistic backgrounds, including Earth limb radiance, cloud clutter models, terrain-specific thermal and optical properties, and celestial backgrounds (stars, zodiacal light).
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience with other simulation tools and programming languages.
  • Experience with non-cooperative target tracking.
  • Experience with collection & revisit modeling.
  • Experience modeling the dynamics of rapid slewing and settling of the spacecraft bus and pointing systems.
  • Demonstrated experience modeling the end-to-end Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) chain.
  • Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure).

*Waypoint Human Capital is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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