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Modeling And Simulation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Modeling And Simulation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.2K

$127.1K

$196.2K

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for modeling and simulation engineer in Chicago, IL is $127,119.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,800.00 and $150,900.00 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 job categories do people searching Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Modeling And Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Modeling And Simulation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Modeling And Simulation Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $127,119 per year, or $61.1 per hour.
Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer

Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

$87K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 352 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SAPTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

We are seeking capable, talented, and motivated team-contributors at our Northrop Grumman Rolling Meadows site. Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. These systems are designed, developed, built, integrated, and tested by the capable folks at our company to protect the lives of US and Allied warfighters in present and future conflicts. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.If you are interested in being considered for inclusion on this team, we invite you to apply.

In this role, you will be responsible for designing and testing custom algorithm solutions as well as developing and validating complex models and simulations. Successful candidates will bring a systems engineering approach to understanding physics phenomenology and creating our in-house algorithms and performance models. You will collaborate with a highly skilled team of engineers, physicists, and experts to implement those algorithms into a system or product. The candidate should have proficiency in software languages such as MATLAB and Python and familiarity with software development in C/C++. A successful candidate will also have strong technical writing and communication skills.

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.

This position may be contingent upon funding/contract award, special access program, and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.

Basic Qualifications for Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer:

  • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a STEM field with 2+ years of related experience, or MS degree or PhD in STEM field with 0 years of related experience
  • Experience developing custom algorithms and/or performance models
  • Experience in creating and delivering technical presentations
  • Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance

Preferred Qualifications for Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer:

  • Working knowledge of one or more of the following specialty areas of targeting and EOIR/RF systems: sensors/antennas, transmitters/receivers, optics, image processing, and tracking
  • Experience working collaboratively on complex projects that encompass both hardware, software, and firmware
  • Proficiency in Java and AFSIM
  • Experience developing formal documentation for complex algorithms
  • Experience supporting requirements development and/or supporting implementation of complex algorithms as embedded software
  • Experience working as part of an agile team executing technical work under cost and schedule constraints
  • Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance
Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939