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Senior Simulation Engineer Jobs in Olympia, WA (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

As a mechanical engineer at AST, you are responsible for the conceptual and detailed design of ... motion analysis/simulations. * Thorough in design practices with a pursuit for perfection.

As a mechanical engineer at AST, you are responsible for the conceptual and detailed design of ... motion analysis/simulations. * Thorough in design practices with a pursuit for perfection.

Senior Simulation Engineer information

See Olympia, WA salary details

$63.3K

$134.5K

$195.1K

How much do senior simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior simulation engineer in Olympia, WA is $134,538.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,100.00 and $152,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior simulation engineer?

Senior Simulation Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and analyze complex simulations to model real-world systems and processes. They use advanced software tools and mathematical models to predict performance, identify potential issues, and optimize designs in fields such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and energy. Their work helps organizations make informed decisions and improve product reliability and efficiency. Senior Simulation Engineers often lead teams, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional groups to ensure the effective implementation of simulation solutions.

What are the typical collaboration points between a senior simulation engineer and other engineering teams?

As a Senior Simulation Engineer, you will frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams such as design, development, and testing to ensure simulation models accurately reflect real-world conditions. This often involves attending design reviews, sharing simulation results, and providing feedback to optimize product performance. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as your insights directly influence design decisions and help troubleshoot issues early in the development cycle. Regular meetings and shared documentation platforms are commonly used to keep everyone aligned and informed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior simulation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Simulation Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency in simulation software such as MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS, or similar tools, along with experience in programming languages like Python or C++, is essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and interpreting complex data. These competencies ensure accurate modeling, effective project delivery, and innovation in designing and optimizing engineering systems.

What is the difference between Senior Simulation Engineer vs Simulation Engineer?

AspectSenior Simulation EngineerSimulation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, experience in simulation softwareBachelor's in Engineering or related field, basic simulation skills
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, R&D departments, engineering firmsDevelopment teams, testing labs, manufacturing companies
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, manufacturingSimilar industries, often entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior Simulation Engineer and a Simulation Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Senior roles typically require more advanced skills, leadership, and project oversight, whereas Simulation Engineers focus on executing simulation tasks under supervision. Both roles are vital in industries like automotive and aerospace, but senior positions involve strategic planning and mentorship.

What job categories do people searching Senior Simulation Engineer jobs in Olympia, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Simulation Engineer jobs in Olympia, WA are:

What cities near Olympia, WA are hiring for Senior Simulation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Olympia, WA with the most Senior Simulation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Simulation Engineer job openings in Olympia, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,538 per year, or $64.7 per hour.

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

AST

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

At AST, we enhance the efficiency, productivity, and safety of flexibleaseptic manufacturing processesfor the worldwide Life Science Industry by offering innovative products, services, and solutions.
Do you want to contribute to a shared vision and mission? Would you like to bring your unique talents to have a significant impact with a growing company? At AST we strive to build a workplace that enables every team memberto meet and exceed their capabilities. We set our expectations high and provide the environment and resources necessary to bring out the very best. AST is proud of our team.
Competitive compensation range for onsite WA applicants is $120,000 to $150,000. All applicants are welcome to apply.
Employee benefits include: Medical (HSA & PPO), Paid Dental, Vision, HSA account with employer contribution, (eligible the first of the month following your date of hire), Long/Short term disability, 401(K) (Traditional & Roth options) with up to 5% company match (eligible 90 days after date of hire), Education Assistance, Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holiday, and bonus potential. All benefits on this page are subject to change.
What can I expect in this role?
As a mechanical engineer at AST, you are responsible for the conceptual and detailed design of complex, highly technical, industrial machinery. This role designs according to sound engineering practices, industry standards and project requirements. You will use scientific analysis and calculations to ensure designs reliably meet project requirements, with minimal oversight.
Key Responsibilities:
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Create conceptual design ideas for new and unique manufacturing challenges.
  • Transform concepts into sound detailed designs using 2D and 3D modeling software.
  • Create and develop system designs and modifications of highly technical industrial machinery efficiently and with minimal nonconformances.
  • Understand industrial machinery specifications and standards and incorporate those requirements into reliable designs.
  • Identify technical risks associated with concepts and/or designs and propose mitigation strategy to minimize overall project risks.
  • Utilize Design of Experiment results to determine design strategy and manage technical risks.
  • Execute projects and tasks with complete documentation within given timelines and budgets with some oversight.
  • Maintain technical records and documentation in support of design history.
  • Execute machine testing plans to ensure designs reliably meet the requirements of the contract.
  • Estimate the number of hours required to accomplish design tasks.
  • Participate in the installation/startup/testing of machinery at customer site.
  • Participate in the design review process and provide technical input to peers.
  • Develop, document and train on process and standards that improve performance of the engineering team.
  • Act as "Engineer in Charge" on medium to large sized projects.
  • Exhibit design proficiency in technical details of every platform in AST's portfolio.

Qualifications:
  • Minimum four-year bachelor's degree in an accredited engineering curriculum, or equivalent experience.
  • 6+ years of working experience as an engineer specifically in industrial machine design and testing.
  • Proficient with computer software such as MS Office, AutoCAD, Solid Modeling (e.g., Inventor, SolidWorks, ProE), FEA, and motion analysis/simulations.
  • Thorough in design practices with a pursuit for perfection.
  • Formally trained in best practices of aseptic processing.
  • High level of commitment to the success of projects and the collective team.
  • Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.
  • Self-motivated, energetic, and disciplined, with keen attention to detail.
  • Character that complements AST's long-standing culture of high integrity throughout all areas of internal and external business activity.
  • 25% travel is expected or as the business needs.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Must be willing to take and successfully pass a drug test. This is a safety sensitive position, and does require pre-employment drug testing, including testing for marijuana and THC.
  • Must be willing to submit to and successfully pass a background check.

AST is proud of our team. Providing challenging and rewarding work, with opportunities for personal/professional development is our key to this longevity.
This is a full-time position based in Tacoma.
AST is an equal opportunity employer.