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Simulation Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Simulation information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10.2K

$62.6K

$112.5K

How much do simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulation in Columbia, SC is $62,582.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,700.00 and $73,600.00 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Simulation jobs in Columbia, SC are:

Infographic showing various Simulation job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,582 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Sumter, SC โ€ข On-site

SMS Data Products Group, Inc.
IT Servicesย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 15 hours ago


Job description

SMS is looking for a Modeling & Simulation Engineer to lead and support AFCENT network communication efforts through the development of network models using existing network architectures, network management data, and simulation tools.
AFCENT's mission is to deliver combat-ready air, space, communications, and cyberspace capability for USCENTCOM, helping maintain security and stability throughout Southwest Asia. We support the AFCENT Commander, USCENTCOM, coalition and joint partners, and warfighters who rely on NIPRNet, SIPRNet, partner networks, and other command-and-control systems. The AFCENT NOSC program is focused on running and protecting a 24/7 enterprise network and systems operations, including cybersecurity, engineering, maintenance, and technical support, keeping the AFCENT's theater communications and IT infrastructure ready, secure, and available to effectively execute the AFCENT mission.
Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com .
Submit your resume today!
Job Responsibilities
  • Utilize modeling and simulation tools to develop network models from existing network architectures using network management data.
  • Develop and run simulations to analyze the impact of technology integrations and changes in network architecture.
  • Research and design wide area networks either as new networks or modify existing networks.
  • Recommend appropriate changes/resolutions in response to tactical and strategic trend analysis derived from network and systems models.
  • Provide technical support to technology upgrades and new technology integrations to ensure interoperability with existing architecture.
  • Identify opportunities to increase efficiency and productivity with automation across all NOSC functional areas.
  • Develop automation strategies and processes that support and align with organization objectives.
  • Support network troubleshooting and enhancement efforts by identifying sub-standard network and/or application configurations and behavior.
  • Coordinate with various enclave engineering teams to design and implement ways to automate network/systems engineering processes.
  • Integrate tools and processes to manage networks using software to automatically provision, configure, deploy, and test network/system infrastructures.
  • Develop and implement programming and automation tools to change and deploy network/system infrastructures.
  • Manage and configure advanced network management toolset to collect data.
  • Develop and update IT systems concept of operations and engineering plans.
  • Provide OCONUS deployment/TDY travel support as required.
  • Provide CONUS TDY support as required.

Required Qualifications
  • B.S. in related field and 5 or more years๏ฟฝ relevant experience; or, 7 or more years๏ฟฝ relevant experience
  • Unix/Linux experience.
  • Ability to identify organizational policy stakeholders
  • Ability to integrate automated capabilities for updating or patching system software where practical and develop processes and procedures for manual updating and patching of system software based on current and projected patch timeline requirements for the operational environment of the system.
  • Must possess experience and demonstrate an understanding of Microsoft server installation, roles, active directory, storage, performance management, and maintenance.
  • Must possess experience and demonstrate an understanding with installation of Microsoft Windows Server in Host and Compute Environments, and Windows Server using server images.
  • Experience with implementation of storage solutions, high availability, Domain Name Systems (DNS), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), network connectivity and remote access solutions, core and distributed network solutions, advance network infrastructure, and maintain and monitor server environments.

Certifications Required
  • Active CCNP or CCDP
  • ITIL Foundation (candidate has up to 60 days to acquire ITIL Foundation certification)

Clearance Required
  • Department of Defense Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain an Interim Secret clearance.

SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Req # 2026-5459