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Modeling Simulation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

APEX TK is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Modeling & Simulation Engineer to join our team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge ...

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Modeling Simulation information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$100.4K

$142.8K

How much do modeling simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 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.

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.

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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Modeling Simulation jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Modeling Simulation job openings:

Software Engineer- Physical Modeling & Simulation Engineer

John H. Northrop & Associates

Newport News, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Software Engineer/Architect- (Physical Modeling & Simulation Engineer)
Overview:
JHNA is seeking a Physical Modeling & Simulation Engineer to support our Aviation customer within the Mission Systems Division (MSD), Technology Development Directorate-Aviation - Systems Integration Division, located at Fort Eustis.
This position supports MSD's Engagements, Effects and Survivability Team, providing advanced analytical expertise to assess technologies supporting Aviation engagements, effects, survivability, mission effectiveness, and emerging capability gaps across current and future Army Aviation operational environments.
The ideal candidate brings deep experience applying AFSIM and related M&S tools to real-world military problems and works effectively at the intersection of operational analysis, technology development, and mission survivability.
Roles/Responsibilities:
  • Assist the Government in identifying and addressing existing and emerging capability gaps by evaluating new operational concepts, tactics, and techniques enabled by advanced aviation technologies.
  • Conduct operational task analysis and collaborate closely with Government engineers, analysts, and technology developers to: Analyze required capabilities, allocate technologies to mission capabilities, Identify technology shortfalls, Support development of technical requirements.
  • Support development, integration, and execution of modeling and simulation environments for manned-unmanned teaming, survivability, and mission effectiveness analysis.
  • Assist in scenario design, scripting, and test vignette development to exercise advanced autonomy, teaming behaviors, and threat interactions.
  • Provide engineering support for software integration testing and model verification within live, virtual, and constructive simulation frameworks.
  • Conduct mission-level survivability and effectiveness assessments using government-approved M&S tools to evaluate advanced threats and countermeasures.
  • Support post-simulation data analysis and report generation documenting findings, limitations, and recommendations.
  • Assist with risk assessments and substantiation documentation supporting test readiness and simulation credibility.
  • Plan and execute Modeling & Simulation (M&S) studies and other analytical efforts in support of survivability and mission effectiveness assessments.
  • Support model credibility, verification, validation, and configuration control activities by preparing and presenting technical artifacts to Validity Control Boards (VCBs), documenting model assumptions and limitations, and implementing VCB-approved changes to AFSIM and other Government-directed modeling and simulation tools.
  • Perform M&S and analytical evaluations, analyze resulting data, and author clear, concise reports communicating findings to Government users, warfighters, and technology developers.
  • Conduct survivability and mission effectiveness analysis using Government-provided software tools, including but not limited to:
  • AFSIM
  • MACE
  • ATCOM
  • SAINT
  • ECHO
  • DREAM
  • BlueMax
  • HIVE
  • VBMS
  • Other Government-directed M&S tools
  • Develop and maintain high-fidelity, large-area terrain databases to support M&S tools and survivability analyses.
  • Architect, manage, and administer M&S files, models, and datasets to enable secure storage, rapid retrieval, and reuse on both classified and unclassified Government systems.
  • Conduct optimization analyses to evaluate parameters of interest (e.g., probability of detection, survivability metrics, mission success), including identifying minimum or maximum values of defined objective functions.
  • Maintain familiarity with current and emerging capability development documents, operational needs statements, and related Army Aviation requirements.
  • Support the Government in coordinating and communicating analytical results with external stakeholders, including technology developers, operational users, and transition partners.

Required Qualifications:
  • Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen with an Active DoD Secret Clearance
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Operations Research, or a related technical discipline.
  • Skilled in C-Sharp, C++ and related coding software
  • Experience supporting defense, aerospace, or government analytical efforts (or equivalent experience aligned to a Software Engineer III/IV labor category).
  • Demonstrated experience conducting Modeling & Simulation-based analysis, with strong emphasis on AFSIM.
  • Experience supporting mission effectiveness and survivability analysis in a military or defense context.
  • Ability to independently plan and execute analytical studies and clearly communicate technical results in written and verbal formats.
  • Familiarity with working in classified and unclassified DoD environments.

JHNA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.