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Modeling Simulation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Modeling Simulation Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$121.8K

$188K

How much do modeling simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for modeling 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the modeling simulation engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Modeling Simulation Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, and computer science, typically supported by a relevant engineering or science degree. Proficiency with simulation software such as MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS, or similar tools, and sometimes certifications in systems engineering or modeling methodologies, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart. These qualifications are crucial for accurately representing complex systems, translating requirements into effective models, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to achieve project goals.

What does a modeling simulation engineer do?

A Modeling Simulation Engineer develops virtual models and simulations to analyze complex systems and processes. They use mathematical models, computer simulations, and data analysis to predict system performance and optimize designs before physical implementation. These engineers typically work in industries like aerospace, defense, automotive, and healthcare to improve efficiency, safety, and decision-making. Their role often involves coding, algorithm development, and working with simulation software to test real-world scenarios in a virtual environment.

What are the typical responsibilities and project stages for a modeling simulation engineer?

Modeling Simulation Engineers are responsible for developing mathematical models, running simulations, analyzing results, and providing recommendations to improve system performance or design. Projects often begin with understanding client or stakeholder requirements, followed by designing models based on those needs and iteratively refining them as data is collected. Engineers work closely with design, hardware, and software teams to validate models and ensure alignment with real-world performance. Collaborating with colleagues and presenting findings to both technical and non-technical audiences are routine aspects of the job, making cross-functional communication vital for project success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Modeling Simulation Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Modeling Simulation Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Modeling Simulation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Modeling Simulation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Modeling Simulation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Modeling Simulation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Modeling Simulation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 4% Temporary, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $121,783 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer 4 (AHT)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
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. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman is currently looking for an experienced Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer 4 with a background in C++. The Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer will work with our C++ based simulations of the missiles to verify weapon system requirements.
This position is required to be full-time, on-site in the Northridge, CA location. No remote/telework arrangement is available for this position. Applicants must have an active US Government DoD Secret security clearance with ability to get cleared for SAP.
The Modeling & Simulation (M&S) Systems Engineer 4 leads the definition, development, and sustainment of advanced modeling and simulation capabilities that support system design, verification, and mission analysis for defense programs. This role combines deep technical expertise in systems engineering and M&S with product ownership responsibilities, ensuring that simulation tools and environments deliver measurable value to internal stakeholders, customers, and program leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Modeling & Simulation Engineering
  • Develop, integrate, and validate models and simulations supporting various weapons systems
  • Extensive testing of the simulations themselves to verify their suitability for weapon systems requirements verification.
  • Assist in development of weapon systems requirements verifications, develop scenarios to verify those requirements, analyzing the results using MATLAB or python tools, and digging into the C++ source code of the simulation to track down reasons for apparent requirements failures.
  • Ensure traceability from system requirements to models, test cases, and analysis results.

Technical Leadership & Integration
  • Leadership abilities and experience to be able to backfill into Product Owner and/or Scrum Master roles should the situation require it
  • Interface with customers to clarify requirements, provide status, and positively represent both the team and NG as a company
  • Lead technical reviews of modeling approaches, assumptions, limitations, and results; present findings to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Mentor junior engineers in modeling techniques, tool usage, and disciplined systems engineering practices.

Process, Governance & Compliance
  • Support M&S related DevOps pipelines and toolsets
  • Establish and maintain documentation for models, interfaces, and simulation frameworks in accordance with defense-industry and customer expectations.
  • Support configuration control and version management for M&S baselines across multiple programs.
  • Ensure compliance with cybersecurity, export control, and data-handling requirements for models and simulation environments.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of M&S processes, toolchains, and workflows.

Basic Qualifications for a Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer - (Level 04):
  • BS degree in aerospace engineering, physics, software engineering, systems engineering, or a related field is required with 8 years of experience or an MS degree in areas above with 6 years of experience.
  • Experience with leadership of cross functional teams
  • Previous experience, and proficiency in developing or troubleshooting C or C++ applications on Windows, and preferably on Linux.
  • Significant experience with either MATLAB or python, with demonstrable experience and skills in using these for data analysis and building analysis tools.
  • Experience applying principles of dynamics/kinematics to analysis or software development.
  • Experience in Jenkins or other DevOps tools
  • Current US Government DoW Secret security clearance with ability to be cleared for Special Access Program (SAP) clearance

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience as a charge account manager, or other experience with EVMS
  • Experience as a scrum master (beyond just running scrum meetings) or scrum product owner.
  • Experience running Monte Carlo simulations
  • Experience working with an HPC system
  • Familiar with make files or CMAKE.
  • Experience in estimating/planning budget and schedule, and in tracking to that plan. Specific experience in doing so via an agile paradigm.
  • Experience with SysML, preferably with CAMEO

#LI-MA1
Primary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00
The 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