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Simulator Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator * Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification ...

Base + Equity Overview Sedaro is hiring a Modeling & Simulation Engineer to build the high fidelity simulation software that powers our cutting-edge simulation platform and help transform how ...

Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator * Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification ...

Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator * Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification ...

Performing training simulator testing with customers * Presenting results of engineering studies * Analyzing simulation results and recommending plant improvements * Writes a well-organized report ...

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Simulator Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$25

$53

$76

How much do simulator engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for simulator engineer in Virginia is $53.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.88 and $61.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are Simulator Engineers?

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.

Infographic showing various Simulator Engineer job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,595 per year, or $53.2 per hour.
Simulation Engineer

Simulation Engineer

Electra Aero, Inc.

Manassas, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Simulation Engineer

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

As a Simulation Engineer at Electra, you'll build and maintain the software and hardware in the loop simulation environments that engineering and test rely on to validate the EL9's systems before they fly. This is an early-career role with real ownership - you'll work directly with senior engineers to develop SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and hybrid propulsion, and you'll grow quickly in an environment where your work has direct program impact.

What You'll Do

  • Build and integrate real-time simulation models using RTOS platforms and model-based development tools (e.g., Simulink, MATLAB).
  • Develop custom interfaces between disparate simulation models and hardware components
  • Support integration of SIL/HIL labs and the engineering flight simulator
  • Maintain configuration control and documentation for all simulation environments in support of FAA Part 23 certification activities.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with the functional IPTs to define simulation requirements and resolve integration issues.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent experience (aerospace, electrical, mechanical, or software preferred).
  • 2+ years of experience in simulation development, systems integration, or related engineering roles.
  • Hands-on experience with model-based development tools such as MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent.
  • Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and hardware interface development.
  • Experience with software or hardware integration testing a plus.
  • CAA (FAA/EASA) certification program experience a plus.
  • S. Person (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.
  • Paid winter break.
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting.
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.
  • Free on-site parking.

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.