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Simulation Engineer Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Software Simulation Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and deploying real-time simulation environments that support the design, verification, and validation of aerospace ...

Mechanical Engineering degree (or equivalent discipline) or 6+ years' experience in aerospace and/or automotive manufacturing. * 1+ years performing Robotic Simulation studies for industrial robotic ...

Mechanical Engineering degree (or equivalent discipline) or 6+ years' experience in aerospace and/or automotive manufacturing. * 1+ years performing Robotic Simulation studies for industrial robotic ...

Mechanical Engineering degree (or equivalent discipline) or 6+ years' experience in aerospace and/or automotive manufacturing. * 1+ years performing Robotic Simulation studies for industrial robotic ...

Showing results 21-40

Simulation Engineer information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$42.5K

$134.6K

$207.8K

How much do simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulation engineer in Pasadena, CA is $134,605.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,400.00 and $159,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a simulation engineer?

A simulation engineer works on complex engineering projects to create simulations for testing the performance of proposed solutions. In this career, your job duties include developing simulation approaches for testing the project, monitoring the simulation in the test environment, and analyzing the results of the test. The qualifications needed for a career as a simulation engineer include a bachelor's degree in engineering. However, some employers prefer a master's degree. You also need strong analytical skills and experience working with experimental projects.

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

To thrive as a Simulation Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, mathematics, and computer science, typically supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency in simulation software such as MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS, or similar tools, along with knowledge of programming languages like Python or C++, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for accurately modeling complex systems, optimizing designs, and ensuring project success.

How does a simulation engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Simulation Engineers frequently work alongside design, testing, and manufacturing teams to ensure that virtual models accurately reflect real-world scenarios. They collaborate closely during the early stages to interpret project requirements and share simulation results to guide design decisions. Regular meetings and iterative feedback loops are common, helping to integrate simulation insights throughout the product development lifecycle. This collaborative environment not only enhances the quality of final products but also provides Simulation Engineers with exposure to diverse technical perspectives.

What is the difference between Simulation Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectSimulation EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related fields; proficiency in simulation softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; CAD software skills
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, simulation centers, R&D departmentsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, prototyping labs
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, manufacturingAutomotive, consumer products, machinery, aerospace
Common Search/ComparisonSimulation Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer

The main difference between a Simulation Engineer and a Mechanical Design Engineer lies in their focus areas. Simulation Engineers specialize in creating and analyzing virtual models to predict product performance, while Mechanical Design Engineers focus on designing and developing physical components and systems. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within engineering projects.

Are simulation engineers in demand?

Simulation engineers are in demand across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and defense, as companies increasingly rely on simulation tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and ANSYS for product development and testing. The role requires strong technical skills, knowledge of modeling and analysis, and often a background in engineering or computer science. Job growth is driven by technological advancements and the need for cost-effective, efficient testing methods.

What are popular job titles related to Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA?

For Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Simulation Engineer jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Simulation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Simulation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Simulation Engineer job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,605 per year, or $64.7 per hour.

Senior Software Simulation Engineer

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.
About The Role:
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Software Simulation Engineer to join Hermeus, a hypersonic aircraft startup company. As a Senior Software Simulation Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and deploying real-time simulation environments that support the design, verification, and validation of aerospace flight control and avionics systems. Leveraging Model-Based Design (MBD) principles, you will use MATLAB/Simulink and automated code generation tools to translate dynamic system models into executable real-time code for Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing.
This role bridges the gap between control system design and embedded software implementation, ensuring accurate representation of aircraft dynamics and system behavior under simulated flight conditions. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate models with real-time targets, optimize simulation performance, and contribute to the certification and reliability of flight-critical systems.
Ideal candidates will have a solid understanding of aerospace systems, control theory, and real-time simulation platforms, along with hands-on experience in model-based code generation, HIL development, and test automation within safety-critical environments.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain real-time simulation environments for flight control, avionics, and aircraft systems.
  • Build and support SIL and HIL test environments for flight software verification.
  • Use MATLAB/Simulink and Model-Based Design workflows to create models and generate real-time code.
  • Integrate aircraft dynamics, controls, sensors, actuators, and avionics models into simulation environments.
  • Connect models with real-time targets, embedded software, and hardware interfaces.
  • Improve simulation performance, timing, fidelity, and reliability.
  • Create automated test scripts and tools to support repeatable validation.
  • Work closely with GNC, flight software, avionics, systems, and test teams to debug and validate system behavior.
  • Support documentation, requirements traceability, and verification activities for flight-critical systems.

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in simulation, controls, embedded software, or real-time test environments.
  • Hands-on experience with MATLAB, Simulink, and Model-Based Design.
  • Experience with code generation tools such as Simulink Coder or Embedded Coder.
  • Understanding of aircraft dynamics, control systems, avionics, or embedded aerospace systems.
  • Experience with SIL, HIL, or real-time simulation environments.
  • Proficiency in C/C++, Python, or similar programming languages.
  • Strong debugging skills across software, models, and hardware interfaces.
  • Ability to work across teams in a fast-paced engineering environment

Preferred Skills and Experience:
  • Experience with real-time platforms such as Speedgoat, dSPACE, NI VeriStand, or OPAL-RT.
  • Experience supporting flight controls, GNC, avionics, autonomy, or aircraft systems.
  • Familiarity with interfaces such as CAN, Ethernet, ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, RS-422, or serial.
  • Experience with automated testing, CI/CD, Git, or software configuration management.
  • Familiarity with safety-critical aerospace standards such as DO-178C, DO-331, or DO-254.
  • Experience integrating simulation environments with flight software or test hardware.
  • Background in aircraft, UAVs, spacecraft, defense systems, or other complex aerospace platforms.
  • Strong ownership mindset and ability to build practical tools that help teams test and iterate quickly.

$150,000 - $190,000 a year
The salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs.
At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team.
Benefits:
  • Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insurance
  • Financial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonuses
  • Time Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employees
  • Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms

U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. ยง 120.62or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.