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Modeling And Simulation Engineer Jobs in California

Saalex is seeking a Modeling and Simulation Engineer in Ridgecrest, CA. The selected candidate will provide advanced Modeling and Simulation (M&S) and systems analysis support for weapon systems ...

Camera Simulation Engineer

Cupertino, CA ยท On-site

$185 - $325/hr

The Camera Modeling & Simulation team, a part of the Camera Hardware and Depth Team, develops novel ... Description As a Modeling & Simulation Engineer on the Camera & Depth Architecture team, you will ...

The Camera Modeling & Simulation team, a part of the Camera Hardware and Depth Team, develops novel ... Description As a Modeling & Simulation Engineer on the Camera & Depth Architecture team, you will ...

Simulation Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$55 - $60/hr

We are looking for Simulation Engineer for our client in San Jose CA . Job Title: Simulation ... Proven experience with Agent-Based Simulation (ABS) for modeling decentralized, autonomous ...

The Camera Modeling and Simulation team, a part of the Camera Hardware and Depth Team, develops ... Description As a Modeling & Simulation Engineer on the Camera & Depth Architecture team, you will ...

Showing results 41-60

Modeling And Simulation Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$121.8K

$188K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for modeling and simulation engineer in California is $121,783.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $144,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a modeling and simulation engineer?

Modeling and Simulation Engineers are professionals who use mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze complex systems and predict their behavior. They work in various industries, including aerospace, defense, healthcare, and manufacturing, to improve product design, optimize processes, and support decision-making. Their work often involves creating virtual prototypes, running simulations to test different scenarios, and interpreting results to provide insights for engineering projects. These engineers typically have strong backgrounds in mathematics, physics, and computer science.

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

To thrive as a Modeling and Simulation Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with simulation software (such as MATLAB, Simulink, or ANSYS), programming languages (like Python or C++), and sometimes certifications in modeling tools are highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for translating complex systems into accurate models and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and usability of simulations that inform critical engineering decisions.

What are some common challenges a modeling and simulation engineer faces when integrating new models into existing systems?

A common challenge for Modeling and Simulation Engineers is ensuring that new models are compatible with existing simulation frameworks and data sources. This often involves resolving discrepancies in data formats, model fidelity, and simulation timing, as well as validating that the integrated system produces accurate and reliable results. Collaboration with software developers, data analysts, and subject matter experts is essential to troubleshoot integration issues and maintain system performance. Effective communication and thorough documentation are key to overcoming these integration hurdles.

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

AspectModeling And Simulation EngineerSystems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields; certifications like INCOSEBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related fields; certifications like INCOSE
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing simulation models, testing scenarios in labs or software environmentsIntegrating system components, coordinating across engineering teams, often in project offices
Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing sectorsDefense, aerospace, IT, and complex system development industries

While both roles require engineering backgrounds and similar certifications, Modeling And Simulation Engineers focus on creating and testing simulation models, whereas Systems Engineers oversee the integration and functionality of entire systems. Both collaborate closely but serve different specialized functions within engineering projects.

Are modeling and simulation engineers in demand?

Modeling and simulation engineers are in high demand across industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and healthcare due to their expertise in developing complex models and simulations. The role often requires proficiency in programming, simulation software, and systems analysis, with job growth driven by technological advancements and increased reliance on virtual testing and training tools.

How to become a modeling and simulation engineer?

To become a modeling and simulation engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field is required, often complemented by experience with simulation software, programming languages, and systems modeling. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with skills in data analysis, systems engineering, and familiarity with tools like MATLAB, Simulink, or C++. Certifications in systems modeling or simulation can enhance job prospects.

What job categories do people searching Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Modeling And Simulation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Modeling And Simulation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,783 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Staff Engineer, Modeling & Simulation (R4869)

Shield AI

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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-BATย 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, visitย www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI onย LinkedIn,ย X,ย Instagram, andย YouTube.ย 

Job Description:
The Aircraft Simulation team is the nerve center of autonomy integration at Shield AI. We deploy the innovative tools, intelligent models, and streamlined processes that make it possible to evaluate complex autonomous flight algorithms at scale. Our tools are utilized in a broad range of simulation-from mission autonomy simulation to Hardware-in-the-loop, and every layer between. In an era of rapid advancement in Artificial Intelligence, our goal is simple: make AI fly-safely, reliably, and fast.
As a Staff Modeling & Simulation Engineer, you will be a pivotal force in engineering Shield AI's foundational simulation platform for our next-generation VTOL aircraft. You'll develop our emerging simulation engine and deploy advanced aircraft models in C++ across multiple engineering domains-ranging from mathematical physics to the latest in surrogate machine learning methods. You will also utilize your multiphysics and aeronautical systems knowledge to conduct system performance analysis against test and vendor data to ensure simulation results are valid in operational scenarios, and simulation platforms are both stable and fast.ย 
What you'll do:
  • Develop infrastructure and models in C++ for autonomous aircraft simulation.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert in modern aerospace and software engineering.
  • Architect deterministic, high-performance simulation software.
  • Lead verification and validation (V&V) analysis studies on models and model tooling.
  • Collaborate tightly across autonomy, embedded, GNC, and test engineering teams to ensure our simulation mirrors real aircraft behavior and mission scenarios.
  • Contribute to platform-agnostic simulation tooling to accelerate future development efforts.
  • Train and guide junior engineers in modeling and simulation best practices.
Required qualifications:
  • BS in Computer Science, Aerospace, Robotics, or related field.
  • 7+ years of experience in simulation software development with C++ competency; exceptional candidates with less experience and demonstrated depth will be considered.
  • Strong understanding of rigid-body dynamics, kinematics, and the physics of dynamic systems.
  • Proven experience developing or integrating simulation systems for robotics, aerospace, and/or other complex dynamic systems (e.g., maritime, space, defense ground systems, or gaming).
  • Ability to debug complex build and runtime environments.
  • Experience with simulation verification and validation.
  • Strong communication skills across software, hardware, and systems disciplines.
  • Must be eligible to obtain a Secret Clearance; Secret clearance eligibility requires US Citizenship.
Preferred qualifications:
  • MS or PhD in Computer Science, Aerospace, Robotics, or related field.
  • Familiarity with modern C++ standards (C++20 or later).
  • Grasp of real-time and deterministic software design, including multi-threading, synchronization, and memory management.ย 
  • Experience with DevOps-integrated simulation workflows, including CI/CD and automated testing environments.
  • Experience with Hardware- and Software-in-the-Loop simulation environments, including integration of real hardware into simulation environments.
  • Experience with CMake, package management tools (e.g. Conan, Nix), and profiling tools.
  • Experience with software testing tools (GTest, etc.)
  • Working knowledge of Python for data analysis, test automation, or simulation orchestration.
  • Experience working on autonomous aircraft systems.
  • Active Secret or Top Secret Clearance is desired.
$150,000 - $250,000 a year
#LI-SM1
#LD

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
ย 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
ย 
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 toย 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.ย 
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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