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Simulation Developer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Simulation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Simulation Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of ...

Sedaro

Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Salary: $95K-125K + Equity Overview Sedaro is hiring a Modeling & Simulation Engineer to build the high fidelity simulation software that powers our cutting-edge simulation platform and help ...

Electra

Simulation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Simulation Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of ...

Sedaro

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Sedaro is hiring Junior-Staff Modeling & Simulation Engineers to build the high fidelity simulation software that powers their cutting-edge simulation platform. The role involves developing ...

APEX TK

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

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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All JobsSimulation Developer JobsSimulation Developer Jobs in Reston, VA

Simulation Developer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$11.4K

$70.3K

$126.4K

How much do simulation developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulation developer in Reston, VA is $70,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,800.00 and $82,700.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Simulation Developer jobs in Reston, VA? For Simulation Developer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Simulation Developer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Simulation Developer jobs in Reston, VA are:
Simulation Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Simulation Developer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,329 per year, or $33.8 per hour.
Simulation Engineer

Simulation Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Simulation Engineer

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

As a Simulation Engineer at Electra, you'll build and maintain the software and hardware in the loop simulation environments that engineering and test rely on to validate the EL9's systems before they fly. This is an early-career role with real ownership - you'll work directly with senior engineers to develop SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and hybrid propulsion, and you'll grow quickly in an environment where your work has direct program impact.

What You'll Do

  • Build and integrate real-time simulation models using RTOS platforms and model-based development tools (e.g., Simulink, MATLAB).
  • Develop custom interfaces between disparate simulation models and hardware components
  • Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator
  • Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification activities.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with the functional IPTs to define simulation requirements and resolve integration issues.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent experience (aerospace, electrical, mechanical, or software preferred).
  • 2+ years of experience in simulation development, systems integration, or related engineering roles.
  • Hands-on experience with model-based development tools such as MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent.
  • Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and hardware interface development.
  • Experience with software or hardware integration testing a plus.
  • CAA (FAA/EASA) certification program experience a plus.
  • S. Person (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required.

Compensation

$90,000 – $110,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.
  • Paid winter break.
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting.
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.
  • Free on-site parking.

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.