1

Simulation Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Simulation Software Engineer We are seeking a Simulation Software Engineer to design and build high-fidelity simulators to perform critical physics and hardware system modeling. You will work closely ...

... software engineering * Master's or PhD in physics, aerospace engineering, or a STEM field * Experience working in Rust production environments * Experience defining and creating simulation systems

... software engineering * Master's or PhD in physics, aerospace engineering, or a STEM field * Experience working in Rust production environments * Experience defining and creating simulation systems

Simulation Software Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

Toyon is seeking a highly motivated software engineer to develop and maintain an internal space systems modeling and simulation application written in C++. The candidate will also deploy scripted ...

METECS is seeking an entry-level Simulation Software Engineer to support NASA's simulation efforts as part of the Robotics, Simulations, and Graphics Support (RSGS) team. This role is ideal for ...

METECS is seeking an entry-level Simulation Software Engineer to support NASA's simulation efforts as part of the Robotics, Simulations, and Graphics Support (RSGS) team. This role is ideal for ...

The software engineer will be responsible for the full-product lifecycle of the simulation tools from design/coding/testing to bug fixing and critical new technology integrations. The candidate ...

The chip simulation team plays a key role in hardware-software co-design, enabling early development of the full software stack. As an engineer on this team, you will design, develop, and test ...

As a Staff Simulation Software Engineer , you will design and deliver the foundational low-level software that makes this possible - working at the intersection of hypervisor technology, hardware ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Simulation Software Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$137.8K

$197K

How much do simulation software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulation software engineer in the United States is $137,846.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $162,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Simulation Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Simulation Software Engineer, you need strong skills in computer science, mathematics, and physics, often backed by a degree in engineering or a related field. Experience with simulation frameworks (like MATLAB, Simulink, or ANSYS), programming languages (such as C++, Python), and relevant certifications such as Certified Modeling and Simulation Professional (CMSP) are commonly sought. Effective problem-solving, attention to detail, and clear communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies enable the accurate development of complex simulations, efficient collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and effective translation of real-world processes into reliable software models.

What does a Simulation Software Engineer do?

A Simulation Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software that models real-world systems, allowing for testing and analysis without physical prototypes. They work with mathematical models, algorithms, and programming languages to create accurate simulations for industries like aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and finance. Their responsibilities may include optimizing performance, integrating with hardware, and validating results to ensure accuracy.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Simulation Software Engineer?

As a Simulation Software Engineer, your daily tasks often include designing and implementing simulation models, writing and testing code, and analyzing simulation results to ensure accuracy and reliability. You may collaborate closely with engineers, domain experts, and project managers to define system requirements and troubleshoot technical issues. Additionally, you will frequently document your work, present findings to stakeholders, and iteratively improve models based on feedback and evolving project needs. The role offers a dynamic blend of independent technical work and team collaboration to solve real-world engineering challenges.

More about Simulation Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Simulation Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Simulation Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Simulation Software Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Simulation Software Engineer jobs? The top employers for Simulation Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Simulation Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Simulation Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Simulation Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Simulation Software Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Simulation Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,846 per year, or $66.3 per hour.
Simulation Software Engineer (Application Software)

Simulation Software Engineer (Application Software)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SIMULATION SOFTWARE ENGINEER (APPLICATION SOFTWARE)

As a Software Engineer on the Simulations team, you will design, develop, and test our in-house simulation software supporting all SpaceX flight systems. You will program the core simulation infrastructure and collaborate on the building of models of fluids, electronics, and multi-body physics systems. This is a high impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build high fidelity simulations used to develop cutting-edge software and hardware. Our simulation software is critical to current and future mission successes including Falcon, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, Starlink, and Starship. SpaceX is looking for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments and care about software best practices.

Help us build world class software that is critical to SpaceX mission to Mars.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and maintain the high-fidelity real-time simulation software used for all vehicles
  • Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
  • Maintain the highest standards of excellence, never settle for the status quo
  • Improve reliability and performance of simulation software
  • Work with simulation software users to develop new features and improve user experiences

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree 
  • 1+ years development experience in C++

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Strong software design and development skills in C++
  • Understanding of distributed computing systems, networking protocols, memory management, and CPU scheduling
  • Thorough knowledge of classical physics and math (algebra, calculus, Euclidean geometry)
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
  • Creative approach to problem solving
  • Experience with open source C++ simulators such as ROS2 and Gazebo
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

Pay Range:    
Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year  

Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom