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Modeling And Simulation Engineer Jobs in California

Astrolab

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$142K - $235K/yr

Lead Simulation Engineer Department: Software Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location ... Experience must include developing individual models, modeling vehicle dynamics and vehicle ...

Archer

Senior Engineer, Modeling & Simulation

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$122K - $173K/yr

MS or PhD in an Engineering discipline highly desirable * 5+ years of multi-physics simulation experience * Expert in numerical modeling and dynamic simulation of complex physical systems, especially ...

Astrolab

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

$142K - $235K/yr

The lead simulation engineer will be responsible for directing the technical work of the simulation ... Experience must include developing individual models, modeling vehicle dynamics and vehicle ...

Apply Early

Hammerhead AI

Simulation Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

Reporting to the CTO, you will model the complex interplay of power, thermal dynamics, and ... Strong Programming Skills: Proficiency in Python, Go and/or C++ and experience with simulation ...

Apply Early

HammerheadAI

Simulation Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

Reporting to the CTO, you will model the complex interplay of power, thermal dynamics, and ... Strong Programming Skills: Proficiency in Python, Go and/or C++ and experience with simulation ...

Astrolab

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

The lead simulation engineer will be responsible for directing the technical work of the simulation ... Experience must include developing individual models, modeling vehicle dynamics and vehicle ...

Humble Robotics

Simulation Engineer

San Francisco, CA

Gaussian splatting, world models, and learned sensor models. We're a small team early in the build. You'll have real influence over both what we build and how we build it. Key Responsibilities

Apply Early

Archer

Senior Engineer, Modeling & Simulation

San Jose, CA · On-site

$122K - $173K/yr

MS or PhD in an Engineering discipline highly desirable * 5+ years of multi-physics simulation experience * Expert in numerical modeling and dynamic simulation of complex physical systems, especially ...

DensityAI

Simulation Engineer

Mountain View, CA

Design, build, and maintain the software simulators and models of our AI accelerator - functional / ISA simulators, cycle-approximate performance models, and the C++/Python infrastructure around them

Freeform

Principal Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Implement numerical simulation models for real-time or near-real-time performance on HPC or GPU platforms * Work with software engineers to build and deploy physics-based and data-driven models of ...

Freeform

Senior Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

Implement numerical simulation models for real-time or near-real-time performance on HPC or GPU platforms * Work with software engineers to build and deploy physics-based and data-driven models of ...

Freeform

Senior Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Implement numerical simulation models for real-time or near-real-time performance on HPC or GPU platforms * Work with software engineers to build and deploy physics-based and data-driven models of ...

Apply Early

Freeform

Senior Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Implement numerical simulation models for real-time or near-real-time performance on HPC or GPU platforms * Work with software engineers to build and deploy physics-based and data-driven models of ...

Freeform

Principal Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

Implement numerical simulation models for real-time or near-real-time performance on HPC or GPU platforms * Work with software engineers to build and deploy physics-based and data-driven models of ...

Apply Early

Freeform

Principal Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Implement numerical simulation models for real-time or near-real-time performance on HPC or GPU platforms * Work with software engineers to build and deploy physics-based and data-driven models of ...

Apply Early

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All JobsModeling And Simulation Engineer JobsModeling And Simulation Engineer Jobs in California

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 Jul 1, 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 are Modeling and Simulation Engineers?

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior modeling and simulation engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming, and often working in aerospace, defense, or high-tech industries can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles typically require specialized knowledge, security clearances, and leadership responsibilities.

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

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Modeling and Simulation Engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming and simulation tools, and work in high-demand industries such as aerospace, defense, or technology. Senior roles, managerial positions, or engineers with specialized certifications often reach or exceed this salary level.

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.

What does a modeling and simulation engineer do?

A modeling and simulation engineer develops and analyzes digital models to replicate real-world systems or processes, often using specialized software and programming skills. They create simulations to test scenarios, optimize designs, and support decision-making in fields like aerospace, defense, or manufacturing, typically requiring knowledge of physics, mathematics, and engineering principles.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior modeling and simulation engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming, and expertise in specialized tools can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or technology. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives for top-tier professionals in leadership or highly specialized roles.
What are popular job titles related to Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs in California? For Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Modeling And Simulation Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,783 per year, or $58.5 per hour.
Lead Simulation Engineer

Lead Simulation Engineer

Astrolab

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$142K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Lead Simulation Engineer
Department: Software Engineering
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Hawthorne, California
Reporting To: Denise Brown
Compensation: $142,000 - $235,000 / year
Description
Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity's presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.
The lead simulation engineer will be responsible for directing the technical work of the simulation team, including development of the simulation infrastructure, vehicle models, and integration of the simulation with vehicle software and automated integrated test tools. The lead simulation engineer will support long-term strategic planning of simulation scope and capabilities with the larger software team and manage the short term tactical priorities. This position is a technical leadership position with an expectation that the lead will also be doing hands on work as part of the simulation team, especially in the realm of integration with other tools and simulation performance improvements.
What you'll do:
  • 10+ years architecting and building real time and faster than real time simulations of complex systems such as spacecraft, aircraft, automobiles or similar systems. Experience must include developing individual models, modeling vehicle dynamics and vehicle operating environment, and developing simulation infrastructure
  • 3 or more years of leading a simulation team, including planning work scope and milestones and managing a small team to meet those milestones
  • Experience integrating a simulation with vehicle software that runs in a separate environment (e.g. spacecraft vehicle simulation integrated with vehicle flight software running on a flight computer or automobile simulation integrated with on-board vehicle software running in a container)
  • Significant experience with simulation and model verification and validation
  • Significant experience with vehicle dynamics modeling, both rigid bodies and flexible bodies and a solid understanding of numerical integration of dynamical systems
  • Significant experience modeling real-world sensors and effectors/actuators, including error sources
  • Experience with fault injection in a simulation environment
  • Strong C++ and Python software programming skills

What you'll bring:
  • Experience simulating extra-terrestrial rovers
  • Experience modeling suspension systems
  • Experience with terramechanics modeling and with tuning terramechanics models given fidelity needs vs. simulation performance requirements
  • Experience working with standard spaceflight models relevant to extra-terrestrial rovers, such as GRGM1200A lunar gravity model, GMM-3 Mars gravity model, Mars GRAM, and similar
  • Significant experience instrumenting, analyzing, and improving simulation performance to ensure real time frames are not overrun or speed up Monte Carlo analysis
  • Experience setting up simulations to support Monte Carlo or similar statistical performance analysis

Benefits and Perks
  • Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
  • Equity ownership in the company
  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Flexible PTO and parental leave
  • Home office set up reimbursement
  • Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
  • Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks

Apply