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Simulator Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Principal Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$95K - $245K/yr

A Principal System Modeling & Simulation Engineer designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems.

Simulation Engineer - Boston

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

A global leader in robotics and automation is seeking a Simulation Engineer to join their breakthrough 3D Simulation Team in Westborough, MA. In this transformative, hands-on position, you'll help ...

Principal Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$95K - $245K/yr

A Principal System Modeling & Simulation Engineer designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems.

Distinguished Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$100K - $275K/yr

A System Modeling & Simulation Engineer (DMTS) designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems.

Distinguished Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$100K - $275K/yr

A System Modeling & Simulation Engineer (DMTS) designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems.

Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$75K - $156K/yr

A System Modeling & Simulation Engineer 2 designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems. Simulation ...

Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$75K - $156K/yr

A System Modeling & Simulation Engineer 2 designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems. Simulation ...

Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$62K - $140K/yr

A System Modeling & Simulation Engineer 1 designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems. Simulation ...

Simulation Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$62K - $140K/yr

A System Modeling & Simulation Engineer 1 designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems. Simulation ...

Staff Simulation Platform Engineer

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

We are seeking a Staff Simulation Platform Engineer to design and build the next-generation simulation infrastructure that supports aircraft modeling, autonomy development, and hardware-in-the-loop ...

$180K - $240K/yr

We are seeking a Staff Simulation Platform Engineer to design and build the next-generation simulation infrastructure that supports aircraft modeling, autonomy development, and hardware-in-the-loop ...

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Showing results 1-20

Simulator Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$27

$58

$83

How much do simulator engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for simulator engineer in Massachusetts is $58.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.26 and $67.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a simulator engineer?

Simulator Engineers are professionals who design, develop, maintain, and optimize simulation systems used to replicate real-world processes or equipment. These simulations are commonly used for training, testing, and research across industries such as aviation, automotive, defense, and healthcare. Simulator Engineers work with both hardware and software components to ensure simulations are accurate, reliable, and meet specific requirements. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting, upgrading systems, and collaborating with subject matter experts to create realistic training environments.

What is the difference between Simulator Engineer vs Test Engineer?

AspectSimulator EngineerTest Engineer
Required credentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, specialized training in simulationBachelor's or higher in engineering, quality assurance, or related field
Work environmentDesigning, developing, and testing simulation systems in labs or officesConducting tests on products or systems in labs, manufacturing, or field settings
Employer & industry usageUsed mainly in aerospace, defense, automotive, and training sectorsCommon across manufacturing, software, aerospace, and automotive industries

Simulator Engineers focus on creating and refining simulation systems to mimic real-world scenarios, while Test Engineers primarily evaluate and validate products or systems through testing procedures. Both roles require technical expertise and often collaborate, but Simulator Engineers specialize in simulation development, whereas Test Engineers concentrate on quality assurance and performance validation.

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

To thrive as a Simulator Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering, computer science, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Experience with simulation software (such as MATLAB/Simulink, Unity, or similar), programming languages (like C++ or Python), and knowledge of hardware integration are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and project management abilities help you collaborate effectively and manage complex projects. These skills ensure accurate simulation development, smooth project execution, and the ability to meet client or organizational requirements.

What are some common challenges simulator engineers face when integrating new technologies into existing simulation systems?

Simulator Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy hardware and software, minimizing system downtime, and maintaining simulation accuracy. They must also rigorously test new components to meet industry standards and user requirements while collaborating closely with software developers, hardware engineers, and end users to address unforeseen issues. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as Simulator Engineers frequently need to troubleshoot and customize solutions for complex simulation environments.
Infographic showing various Simulator Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,829 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

Principal Simulation Engineer

Draper

Cambridge, MA โ€ข On-site

$95K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

A Principal System Modeling & Simulation Engineer designs, develops, validates, and maintains dynamic simulations and infrastructure for rapid assessment, integration, and test of complex systems. Simulation applications range from high-level behavioral simulations for visualization and evaluation of system concepts to high-fidelity real-time simulations and Hardware-in-the-Loop infrastructure to support development, integration, test, and sustainment of systems and software.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
Architect, integrate, verify and validate system-level simulations in the context of a larger aerospace project life cycle.
May working independently or lead a small team of engineers.
Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
Design a simulation architecture, including internal and external interfaces, facilities, infrastructure, and models, to satisfy requirements,
Write and automate test plans.
Develop real-time hardware interfaces, integrate legacy software models, and develop new software models.
Acts as a subject matter expert in System Modeling and Simulation engineering.
Integrate 3D visualization tools, and
Development and maintain an in house real-time software framework.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Experience with analytical methods, approaches, and data visualization.
Excellent mathematical skills.
Ability to collaborate within a diverse and multidisciplinary team.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to quickly understand and integrate new software APIs
Ability to efficiently triage, debug, and fix software and hardware integration issues
Ability to develop systems with human factors, UI/UX, usability requirements.
Knowledge and familiarity with aerospace systems and related sciences.
Education
Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science,Mathematics, or related field. PhD. preferred..
Experience
7-10 years of Systems Engineering or related experience.
Professional software development experience in a multi-disciplinary, team setting
Significant experience with C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink.

Additional Job Description:

Experienced software and systems engineer able to architect, integrate, and verify and validate components of a simulation in the context of a larger aerospace project life cycle.

Activities may include developing simulation requirements, writing and automating test plans, developing real-time hardware interfaces, integrating legacy software models, developing new software models with subject matter experts, integrating 3D visualization tools, and development and maintenance of an in house real time software framework.

Required Qualifications:

  • Professional software development experience in a multi-disciplinary, team setting
  • Significant experience with C/C++ and Matlab/Simulink
  • Ability to quickly understand and integrate new software APIs
  • Ability to efficiently triage, debug, and fix software\hardware integration issues
  • Experience developing systems where human factors, UI/UX, and usability trade off with engineering and business demands
  • Knowledge and familiarity with aerospace systems and related sciences

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proficient in C/C++ development in a Linux environment (Bash, GCC, GNU Make, GDB, etc.)
  • Experience with communications protocols and hardware drivers
  • Familiarity with Matlab/Simulink
  • Familiarity with GNC systems and 6DOF dynamics
  • Experience in presenting test results to customers
  • Experience with engineering team leadership

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$95,000.00 - $245,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.