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Modeling Simulation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

LMI

Modeling & Simulation Analyst/Developer

Tysons, VA · Hybrid

Collaborate with other RAPTR software engineers, modelers, and analysts to optimize performance for large-scale simulations. * Implement monitoring, logging, and alerting to ensure system reliability ...

LMI

Modeling & Simulation Analyst/Developer

Tysons, VA · Hybrid

Collaborate with other RAPTR software engineers, modelers, and analysts to optimize performance for large-scale simulations. * Implement monitoring, logging, and alerting to ensure system reliability ...

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All JobsModeling Simulation JobsModeling Simulation Jobs in Virginia

Modeling Simulation information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$100.4K

$142.8K

How much do modeling simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for modeling simulation in Virginia is $100,387.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $128,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Modeling Simulation jobs in Virginia? For Modeling Simulation jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Modeling Simulation jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Modeling Simulation jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Modeling Simulation jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Modeling Simulation job openings:
Modeling Simulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Modeling Simulation job openings in Virginia 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 $100,387 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Waypoint Human Capital

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Modeling & Simulation Engineer
Position Type: Full-time; Onsite
Position Location: Chantilly, VA
Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI CI Poly
Waypoint’s client is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Modeling & Simulation Engineer to join their team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects within the aerospace domain.
Responsibilities:
  • Define modeling requirements from user needs and system architecture and develop scripts to automate scenario modeling and performance analysis.
  • Develop models of the end-to-end phenomenology chain, including generating complex EO/IR target signatures (BRDF, thermal), modeling atmospheric radiative transfer using tools like MODTRAN, and integrating realistic cloud clutter and terrain backgrounds.
  • Oversee mission-level simulation to assess ISR constellation performance.
  • Conduct trade studies on future ISR constellations.
  • Assess the resilience of specificized ISR architecture; model the space environment's impact on payload performance, including radiation effects on focal plane arrays, and analyze the vulnerability of established PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) systems to RF interference.
  • Utilize Python for model development, data analysis, and simulation execution.
  • Leverage AFSIM (or similar aerospace simulation software) for analysis and performance prediction.
  • Incorporate phenomenological modeling principles into relevant models and simulations.

Required Qualifications:
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Poly.
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in modeling and simulation, preferably within the aerospace industry.
  • Strong proficiency in Python programming.
  • Familiarity with AFSIM or similar aerospace simulation tools.
  • Solid understanding of orbital mechanics and space systems.
  • Experience with phenomenological models, including a demonstrated ability to model relevant physical phenomena and validate those models.
  • Experience modeling solar illumination effects, thermal emissions, Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) for material identification, and temperature dynamics of a target.
  • Experience modeling Radar Cross Section (RCS) for various frequencies and polarizations, and the signatures of active RF emitters.
  • Experience with atmospheric models (like MODTRAN or LibRadtran) to simulate absorption, scattering, turbulence (seeing effects), and path radiance.
  • Experience generating realistic backgrounds, including Earth limb radiance, cloud clutter models, terrain-specific thermal and optical properties, and celestial backgrounds (stars, zodiacal light).
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience with other simulation tools and programming languages.
  • Experience with non-cooperative target tracking.
  • Experience with collection & revisit modeling.
  • Experience modeling the dynamics of rapid slewing and settling of the spacecraft bus and pointing systems.
  • Demonstrated experience modeling the end-to-end Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) chain.
  • Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure).

*Waypoint Human Capital is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.