1

Modeling Simulation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Modeling Simulation information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$99.9K

$142.1K

How much do modeling simulation jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for modeling simulation in California is $99,929.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $127,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Modeling and Simulation Specialist, you need strong analytical skills, a solid foundation in mathematics and statistics, and typically a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB, Simulink, or Arena), programming languages (like Python or C++), and sometimes certifications in modeling tools are highly valuable. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are soft skills that help professionals interpret complex data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate model development, insightful analysis, and successful application of simulations to real-world problems.

How do professionals in Modeling Simulation typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Modeling Simulation professionals often work closely with engineers, software developers, analysts, and project managers to develop accurate models and simulations for various applications. Collaboration usually involves gathering requirements, integrating domain expertise, validating simulation results, and refining models based on feedback. Regular meetings and iterative development cycles are common, helping ensure that models align with project goals and stakeholder needs. This interdisciplinary approach is essential for delivering robust solutions and often leads to valuable learning and career growth opportunities.

What is modeling and simulation in a professional context?

Modeling and simulation is the process of creating and using digital models to represent real-world systems, processes, or phenomena in order to analyze and predict their behavior. Professionals in this field use specialized software and mathematical techniques to simulate scenarios, test hypotheses, and optimize performance without the risk or expense of real-world experimentation. This approach is widely used in industries such as engineering, defense, healthcare, and manufacturing to improve decision-making, training, and system design.

What jobs make 3000 a month without a degree?

In modeling simulation, entry-level roles such as simulation technician or junior modeler can sometimes pay around $3,000 per month, especially with relevant technical skills and experience. Other related positions like CAD drafter or quality assurance tester may also reach this income level without requiring a degree, depending on the industry and location.

What is the difference between Modeling Simulation vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectModeling SimulationMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, computer science, or related fields; proficiency in simulation softwareBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering; often professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentSoftware development, research labs, engineering firmsManufacturing plants, design offices, R&D departments
Industry UsageDesign validation, system analysis, virtual prototypingProduct design, testing, manufacturing processes
Common Search/ComparisonModeling Simulation vs Mechanical Engineer

Modeling Simulation specialists focus on creating virtual models and running simulations to analyze system behaviors, often requiring programming skills and software expertise. Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and test physical products and systems, utilizing their engineering knowledge in practical applications. While both roles overlap in engineering principles, Modeling Simulation emphasizes virtual analysis, whereas Mechanical Engineering centers on physical product development.

What cities in California are hiring for Modeling Simulation jobs? Cities in California with the most Modeling Simulation job openings:
Senior Modeling and Simulation Engineer -Tactical, Reconnaissance and Strike

Senior Modeling and Simulation Engineer -Tactical, Reconnaissance and Strike

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Anduril's Tactical Reconnaissance and Strike Division (TRS) is responsible for design and development of Anduril's fleet of small warfighting and surveillance drones deployed around the world, including Ghost, Anvil, Altius, and Bolt. The guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) team within TRS performs implementation, analysis, test, and validation, modeling & simulation, for GNC software solutions supporting our autonomous drone fleet. Applications include attitude and position control, waypoint and terminal guidance engagements, and navigating contested environments including communication and GPS denied environments. This role will be responsible for building and maintaining the high fidelity 6 Degree of Freedom simulation software utilized with TRS GNC for GNC algorithm development, test, and validation.

ABOUT THE JOB

We are looking for a Modeling & Simulation engineer to join our team. As part of the team, you will have the opportunity to develop, implement and maintain a sufficient fidelity simulations and digital twins of the myriad of different vehicles that Anduril works on. The ideal candidate has experience working on aerospace systems and understands the right fidelity of sub-system and system level modeling required to integrate with the broader flight control and mission autonomy software. The role requires the individual to be proficient in vehicle/sub-system modeling and well-versed in coding practices and software integration practices. If you have a passion for flight and like the idea of building a physics based digital representation of a flying vehicle this is the role for you!

  • What You'll Do
    • Develop simulation solutions for 6DOF and Guidance, Navigation and Control algorithm development
    • Develop and maintain Software-In-The-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-In-The-Loop (HITL) tests.
    • Work closely with the flight software team to define requirements and integrate GNC software
    • Characterization work (aero, optics, actuators, IMUs, etc) for both fixed wing and rotorcraft
    • Review test data captured from the flight control system, subsystems, and other test instrumentation to verify vehicle performance, evaluate GNC algorithm/controller behavior, or debug incident.
    • Develop models required to support functional evaluation of GNC software
  • Required Qualifications
    • Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering or a related field with exceptional skills in the field of dynamic systems and control
    • 8 years professional experience in a Modeling & Simulation for supporting airborne platforms
    • Demonstrated proficiency in C++, Matlab, Simulink, Simulink Embedded Coder, and Python
    • Extensive experience in modeling and simulation of linear/nonlinear dynamic systems
    • Experience in Monte-Carlo simulations and flight test data analysis tools and processes
    • Extensive experience in the mathematical modeling and simulation of aerodynamics, rotorcraft dynamics, sensors and actuators.
    • Work with multi-disciplinary subject matter experts to understand and adequately model pertinent sub-system, system and system of system dynamics
    • A passion for defending the Unites States of America and its allies
    • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance
  • Preferred Qualifications
    • Master's Degree or PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with a focus on dynamic systems and control
    • Experience with Flight test data processing/sim correlation experience
    • Experience with integrating and debugging navigation systems for aerial platforms
    • Experience with guidance algorithm development

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media