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Simulation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Simulation Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

We're looking for a software engineer to join our simulation team. You'll build the systems and tools that support closed-loop model testing, synthetic data generation, and sensor simulation. This ...

Simulation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$145K - $185K/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 ...

Position Overview Open to a range of experience levels We're looking for a software engineer to join our simulation team. You'll build the systems and tools that support closed-loop model testing ...

ABOUT AARU Aaru operates at the bleeding edge of predictive intelligence, using AI to simulate and predict human behavior at scale. By generating and deploying instances of artificial intelligence ...

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 ...

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$142K - $235K/yr

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 ...

Simulation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $60/hr

Deep understanding of Discrete Event Simulation (DES) principles including entities, resources, queues, and events. * Proven experience with Agent-Based Simulation (ABS) for modeling decentralized ...

Lead Simulation Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site +1

$142K - $235K/yr

Lead Simulation Engineer Department: Software Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To: Denise Brown Compensation: $142,000 - $235,000 / year Description ...

You'll help define the simulation substrate Luma uses to train general-purpose robot policies - a faithful, controllable simulation of the world built on our generative video and 3D models. You'll ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Simulation information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$66.7K

$119.9K

How much do simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a simulation specialist?

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 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 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.

How do you become a simulation engineer?

To become a simulation engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field is required, along with strong skills in programming, modeling, and simulation software such as MATLAB or Simulink. Gaining experience through internships, certifications, or projects involving system modeling and analysis can also improve job prospects.

What careers use simulation?

Simulation is used in various careers such as aerospace engineering, healthcare training, military, automotive design, and software development. Professionals in these fields often work with specialized simulation software and may require skills in modeling, programming, or data analysis to create realistic training environments or test scenarios.

What is a simulation job?

A simulation job involves creating, analyzing, or operating computer-based models that replicate real-world systems or processes. These roles often require skills in programming, data analysis, and understanding of the specific industry, such as engineering, healthcare, or aerospace. Simulation professionals may work with specialized software and often need a background in science or technology.

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:

Infographic showing various Simulation job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,716 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Simulation Engineer

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About Humble Robotics

Working at Humble Robotics means taking on the biggest change in ground transportation in decades. We’re building an autonomous, zero-emissions hauler that dramatically lowers the cost of freight with groundbreaking vision-based AI, designed for today’s global logistics network.

We’re a fast-moving, close-knit team of AV industry veterans and innovative thinkers. We don’t believe culture can be engineered – but when it falls into place, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Position Overview

Open to a range of experience levels.

We’re looking for a software engineer to join our simulation team. You’ll build the systems and tools that support closed-loop model testing, synthetic data generation, and sensor simulation. This work will also heavily with modern neural rendering approaches: Gaussian splatting, world models, and learned sensor models.

We’re a small team early in the build. You’ll have real influence over both what we build and how we build it.

Key Responsibilities
  • Build and maintain Python pipelines and tooling for closed-loop testing and synthetic data generation
  • Integrate modern neural rendering techniques into our sensor simulation stack (e.g., Gaussian splatting, NeRFs, world models)
  • Expand and maintain the scenario library and benchmark suite used to evaluate perception, planning, and control
  • Develop synthetic data generation workflows, including scenario and agent behavior generation, to support model training
  • Work closely with ML and autonomy engineers to measure and reduce sim-to-real gaps, ensuring simulation reflects real-world behavior
Minimum Qualifications
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field—or equivalent industry experience
  • Strong proficiency in Python (primary language of the simulation stack)
  • Experience working with simulation systems, ideally in robotics, autonomous vehicles, or other high-fidelity domains
  • Eligible to work in the United States
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with neural rendering or generative simulation (e.g., Gaussian splatting, NeRFs, world models, diffusion-based methods)
  • Depth in one or more areas of simulation: closed-loop testing, scenario design, log replay, or sensor simulation
  • Experience building benchmarks or evaluation frameworks used across a team
  • Experience developing synthetic data pipelines that improved downstream model performance
  • Familiarity with real-time robotic systems and their constraints on simulation fidelity
  • Comfortable working on a small team with high ownership and fast iteration cycles
Compensation

This role is eligible for base salary + benefits + equity compensation. Salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by additional factors, including qualifications, skills, experience, and location.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Humble Robotics is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristics protected by law. Humble Robotics will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with local ordinances.

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