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Simulation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrolab

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

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 ...

Strativ Group

Simulation Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Overview Simulation Engineer - San Francisco, CA (On-Site) They move faster than traditional defense companies and are looking for builders who thrive under technical and personal challenge. Founded ...

Freeform

Principal Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PRINCIPAL 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 ...

Apple

Electrical Simulation CAE Engineer

San Jose, CA

$118K - $244K/yr

We are the Electrical Simulation CAE Team in Hardware Engineering, and our primary objective is to develop and implement workflows and methodologies that ensure electrical and electromagnetic ...

Freeform

Senior Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

SENIOR 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 ...

Freeform

Senior Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

SENIOR 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 ...

Freeform

Senior Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

SENIOR 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 ...

Impulse Space

Senior Simulation Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Senior Simulation Engineer Department: Autonomous Systems Employment Type: Full Time Location: Redondo Beach Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 / year Description As a Simulation Engineer , you will ...

Stand

Physics Simulation Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As a Physics Simulation Engineer on the Applied Science team, you'll play a key role in developing and deploying advanced computational physics models, collaborating closely with engineers ...

Freeform

Principal Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

PRINCIPAL 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 ...

Apex

Senior Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$170K - $214K/yr

About the Role As a Simulation Engineer, you will be responsible for developing closed-loop spacecraft test platforms - such as six degrees of freedom simulation platform (6DOF), software-in-the-loop ...

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All JobsSimulation JobsSimulation Jobs in California

Simulation information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$66.7K

$119.9K

How much do simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulation 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 vs CAD Designer?

AspectSimulationCAD Designer
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, certifications in simulation softwareEngineering or design degrees, CAD software certifications
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospaceDesign studios, manufacturing, product development
Industry UsageTesting and analyzing product performanceCreating detailed product models and drawings

Simulation specialists focus on testing and analyzing how products perform under various conditions using simulation software. CAD Designers create detailed 3D models and drawings for manufacturing and design purposes. While both roles require engineering knowledge and software skills, Simulation emphasizes analysis and testing, whereas CAD Design centers on creating precise models for production.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the field of simulation, senior roles such as simulation engineers, technical directors, or lead developers in industries like aerospace, defense, or software often reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming and modeling, and leadership responsibilities. High-level positions in related fields such as data science or software architecture can also achieve this salary level with specialized expertise and certifications.

What careers use simulation?

Simulation is used in various careers such as aerospace engineering, healthcare, military training, automotive design, and software development. Professionals in these fields utilize simulation tools and software to model real-world systems, improve processes, and enhance training effectiveness.

What are some common challenges faced by simulation professionals when working on complex projects?

Simulation professionals often encounter challenges such as integrating diverse data sources, ensuring model accuracy, and effectively communicating technical results to non-technical stakeholders. Working on complex projects usually involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, managing tight deadlines, and adapting models as project requirements evolve. Developing strong problem-solving skills and maintaining clear communication with team members and clients are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering successful simulation outcomes.

What is a simulation specialist?

A simulation specialist is a professional who designs, develops, and manages simulated environments for training, research, or analysis purposes. They often work in industries such as healthcare, aviation, engineering, or the military to create realistic scenarios that help people practice skills or test systems without real-world risks. Simulation specialists use advanced technology and software to create these interactive models, ensuring they accurately replicate real-life situations.

What jobs make 10,000 a month without a degree?

In simulation-related fields, high-paying roles such as freelance 3D modelers, game developers, or virtual environment designers can earn $10,000 or more monthly through project-based work or contracts. Success in these roles typically requires strong skills in software like Unity or Unreal Engine, a robust portfolio, and self-marketing, as they often operate independently or as consultants without formal degrees.

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

To thrive as a Simulation Specialist, you typically need a background in engineering, computer science, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Expertise in simulation software such as MATLAB, Simulink, or ANSYS, and familiarity with programming languages like Python or C++, are commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and conveying complex results. These skills and qualifications are crucial for building accurate models, troubleshooting issues, and delivering reliable simulations that inform decision-making.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the simulation field, senior roles such as simulation engineers, technical directors, or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in modeling and software tools, and leadership responsibilities. These high salaries are often found in industries like aerospace, defense, or large technology firms where complex simulations are critical. Achieving this level typically requires advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management and technical expertise.
What are the most commonly searched types of Simulation jobs in California? The most popular types of Simulation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Simulation jobs? Cities in California with the most Simulation job openings:
Simulation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Simulation job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,716 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Lead Simulation Engineer

Astrolab

Hawthorne, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity's presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.   
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 the simulation with vehicle software and automated integrated test tools.  The lead simulation engineer will support long-term strategic planning of simulation scope and capabilities with the larger software team and manage the short term tactical priorities.  This position is a technical leadership position with an expectation that the lead will also be doing hands on work as part of the simulation team, especially in the realm of integration with other tools and simulation performance improvements.
  • 10+ years architecting and building real time and faster than real time simulations of complex systems such as spacecraft, aircraft, automobiles or similar systems.  Experience must include developing individual models, modeling vehicle dynamics and vehicle operating environment, and developing simulation infrastructure 
  • 3 or more years of leading a simulation team, including planning work scope and milestones and managing a small team to meet those milestones 
  • Experience integrating a simulation with vehicle software that runs in a separate environment (e.g. spacecraft vehicle simulation integrated with vehicle flight software running on a flight computer or automobile simulation integrated with on-board vehicle software running in a container) 
  • Significant experience with simulation and model verification and validation 
  • Significant experience with vehicle dynamics modeling, both rigid bodies and flexible bodies and a solid understanding of numerical integration of dynamical systems 
  • Significant experience modeling real-world sensors and effectors/actuators, including error sources 
  • Experience with fault injection in a simulation environment 
  • Strong C++ and Python software programming skills 
  • Experience simulating extra-terrestrial rovers 
  • Experience modeling suspension systems 
  • Experience with terramechanics modeling and with tuning terramechanics models given fidelity needs vs. simulation performance requirements 
  • Experience working with standard spaceflight models relevant to extra-terrestrial rovers, such as GRGM1200A lunar gravity model, GMM-3 Mars gravity model, Mars GRAM, and similar 
  • Significant experience instrumenting, analyzing, and improving simulation performance to ensure real time frames are not overrun or speed up Monte Carlo analysis 
  • Experience setting up simulations to support Monte Carlo or similar statistical performance analysis 
  • Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
  • Equity ownership in the company
  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Flexible PTO and parental leave
  • Home office set up reimbursement
  • Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
  • Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks

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