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Simulation Software Jobs (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Simulation Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$123K - $200K/yr

Create and maintain simulation software infrastructure for our 20kW+ spacecraft * Develop physics-based software models of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, attitude control, power, and ...

Apple

Camera Simulation Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

$120K - $181K/yr

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 ...

K2 Space

Simulation Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$123K - $200K/yr

Create and maintain simulation software infrastructure for our 20kW+ spacecraft * Develop physics-based software models of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, attitude control, power, and ...

Toyon

Simulation Software Engineer

Goleta, CA

$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 ...

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$74K

$137.8K

$197K

How much do simulation software jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulation software 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 as a Simulation Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Simulation Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (often in C++, Python, or MATLAB), a background in mathematics or engineering, and experience with simulation modeling. Familiarity with simulation platforms like Simulink, Arena, or AnyLogic, as well as knowledge of version control and software development tools, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication help you translate complex systems into accurate simulations and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications ensure the creation of reliable, efficient simulation models that inform decision-making and innovation across industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in simulation software development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in simulation software often encounter challenges such as ensuring model accuracy, managing computational resource demands, and integrating their solutions with other engineering tools. These challenges can be addressed by collaborating closely with subject matter experts, staying updated on advancements in computing hardware, and adhering to industry standards for interoperability. Regular communication with team members—including engineers, designers, and testers—also helps to streamline troubleshooting and foster innovative solutions.

What is simulation software?

Simulation software is a type of computer program that models real-world systems, processes, or environments to study their behavior under various conditions. It allows users to test scenarios, predict outcomes, and optimize designs without the cost or risk of physical experiments. Simulation software is widely used in industries like engineering, healthcare, aviation, and manufacturing for purposes such as product development, training, and research. The software can range from simple models to highly complex, multi-physics simulations depending on the application.
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Simulation Software jobs near you
Infographic showing various Simulation Software job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% Part Time. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% 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 9 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
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 - $145,000.00/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.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by 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.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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