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Simulation Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrolab

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$142K - $235K/yr

Lead Simulation Engineer Department: Software Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To: Denise Brown Compensation: $142,000 - $235,000 / year Description ...

Skild AI

Simulation Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

Position Overview We are seeking talented simulation engineers to create expansive simulated worlds to scale up robotic experience. You will have a dual focus: designing high-level virtual ...

Freeform

Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

SIMULATION ENGINEER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating ...

Astrolab

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$142K - $235K/yr

The lead simulation engineer will be responsible for directing the technical work of the simulation team, including development of the simulation infrastructure, vehicle models, and integration of ...

Freeform

Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

SIMULATION ENGINEER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating ...

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All JobsSimulation Developer JobsSimulation Developer Jobs in California

Simulation Developer information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$66.7K

$119.9K

How much do simulation developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulation developer in California is $66,716.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Simulation Developer vs Simulation Engineer?

AspectSimulation DeveloperSimulation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Engineering, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or higher in Engineering, Computer Science; specialized simulation knowledge
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, R&D labs, tech companiesEngineering teams, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industries
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, gaming, simulation software companiesEngineering firms, aerospace, automotive, defense
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, skills, and career pathsJob responsibilities, industry applications, skills needed

Simulation Developers focus on creating and coding simulation software, often emphasizing programming and software design. Simulation Engineers apply simulation techniques to solve engineering problems, focusing on system analysis and testing. While both roles require technical skills and knowledge of simulation, Simulation Developers are more software-centric, whereas Simulation Engineers are more application-focused within engineering contexts.

What does a Simulation Developer do?

A Simulation Developer designs, builds, and tests computer-based models that mimic real-world processes or systems. They use programming languages and simulation software to create virtual environments for training, research, or analysis purposes. These professionals work in various industries, such as aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing, to help organizations understand complex scenarios and make informed decisions. Simulation Developers often collaborate with subject matter experts to ensure models are accurate and effective.

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

To thrive as a Simulation Developer, you need strong programming skills (such as C++, Python, or Java), a background in mathematics or engineering, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (like Unity, Unreal Engine, or MATLAB) and experience using modeling tools and version control systems are typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set outstanding simulation developers apart. These competencies are vital for building accurate, reliable simulations that meet user needs and support decision-making in various industries.

What are some typical challenges Simulation Developers face when working on complex projects?

Simulation Developers often encounter challenges such as balancing simulation accuracy with computational efficiency and managing large datasets. Collaborating closely with domain experts and software engineers is essential to ensure the simulation reflects real-world scenarios and integrates smoothly with other systems. Additionally, adapting to evolving project requirements and optimizing code for different hardware platforms can require creative problem-solving and continuous learning.
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What are popular job titles related to Simulation Developer jobs in CA? For Simulation Developer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Simulation Developer jobs near you
Senior Developer Relations Manager, Robotics Physics and Simulation

Senior Developer Relations Manager, Robotics Physics and Simulation

Nvidia

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

At NVIDIA, we're pushing the boundaries of AI, robotics, and accelerated computing to transform industries and improve lives. We're looking for a Developer Relations Manager to work in our Robotics ecosystem team, where you will be the primary technical liaison link between NVIDIA's internal product/engineering teams and the global robotics community. Your mission is to drive the adoption and extension of the Newton framework and lead developers in applying NVIDIA Warp to build next-generation, GPU-accelerated solvers for robotics. You will help the world's leading robotics authorities address the "sim-to-real" gap using differentiable physics and massively parallel simulation.

Whatyou'llbe doing:

  • Drive global adoption of the Newton framework. Partner with industry leaders, academic researchers, and major ISVs to integrate specific solvers (FEM, MPM, granular dynamics) into the Newton ecosystem.

  • Lead technical advisory for NVIDIA Warp, helping developers write high-performance GPU kernels for physics and geometry processing across real-time and multi-platform systems.

  • Co-design reference architectures using Newton's multi-physics capabilities (rigid body, soft body, and cloth coupling).

  • Represent the robotics community to internal teams to influence the roadmaps for Newton, Warp, and Isaac Lab based on real-world requirements.

  • Produce "Warp-native" solver templates, white papers on differentiable simulation, and lead sessions at major conferences (GTC, ICRA, CoRL).

What We Need To See:

  • 8+ years in tech and hands-on in computational physics, geometry processing, numerical simulation, physics engine development, or robotics software.

  • Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on simulation (or equivalent experience).

  • Physics & Robotics Foundations: Deep understanding of physics solvers (XPBD, VBD, Semi-Implicit Euler) and robotics math (kinematics, dynamics, contact modeling).

  • Expertise in Multibody Dynamics (Featherstone's algorithms, RNEA, Spatial Vector Algebra).

  • Strong grasp of Inverse Kinematics (IK), trajectory optimization, and motion planners (OMPL).

  • Practical experience modeling sensor noise, actuator dynamics (latency, friction, hysteresis), and contact mechanics to bridge the "Reality Gap."

  • Proven GPGPU programming skills (CUDA kernels, thread synchronization, memory hierarchies).

  • Ability to translate sophisticated numerical methods into value propositions for both PhD or equivalent experience researchers and C-suite executives.

  • Track record of contributions to major projects (e.g., MuJoCo, PyBullet, Drake).

Ways To Stand Out from the crowd:

  • An established network within the humanoid robotics or industrial automation sectors.

  • Experience simulating high-DoF systems and complex contact-rich interactions.

  • Confirmed use of differentiable simulation for System Identification (SysID) or design optimization.

  • in kernel programming (Warp, Numba, Triton) or tensor programming (JAX, PyTorch, TensorFlow).

  • Authoring or implementing novel solvers for fluid-structure interaction or non-smooth dynamics.

Offering attractive compensation packages and extensive employee benefits, NVIDIA is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after employers in the technology industry. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us, and, due to outstanding growth, our special engineering teams are growing fast. If you're a creative and autonomous professional with a genuine passion for technology, we want to hear from you!

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4, and 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5.

You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until April 18, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

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