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Simulator Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sedaro

Senior Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120.30K - $165.10K/yr

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

SAIC

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA

ORA_ON_SITE Description  SAIC is seeking an experienced Modeling and Simulation Engineer to support a customer in Chantilly, VA. The successful applicant will demonstrate flexibility in task ...

SAIC

Radar Modeling Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Description SAIC has a funded need for a Radar Modeling Simulation Engineer to support a rapidly expanding Government Intelligence Community (IC) customer with cutting-edge programs within the ...

APEX TK

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

APEX TK is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Modeling & Simulation Engineer to join our team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge ...

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$25

$53

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How much do simulator engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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.

What are popular job titles related to Simulator Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Simulator Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Simulator Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Simulator Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Simulator Engineer jobs near you
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.
Machine Learning Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Machine Learning Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

SAIC has need for a Machine Learning Modeling and Simulation Engineer  to support a rapidly expanding Government Intelligence Community (IC) customer with cutting-edge programs within the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, VA.

Note:  The role offers a flexible work schedule, but we ask our team to be available for team meetings during core business hours (10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.).

As the Machine Learning Modeling and Simulation Engineer, you will provide technical expertise across a variety of Machine Learning (ML) and Modeling and Simulation (M&S) topics, including developing and training ML models, designing simulation frameworks, conducting performance analyses, and applying data-driven approaches to solve complex problems. You will also assist with Systems Engineering topics (e.g., requirements, configuration management, readiness, verification and validation, etc.) to ensure seamless integration of ML capabilities within simulation environments. 

Job Duties to include:

  • Develop and maintain physics-based simulation models of spacecraft systems, including structures, sensors, and mission environments.
  • Perform end-to-end performance modeling for satellite missions, integrating sensor, orbital, and environmental models.
  • Conduct sensor phenomenology studies, including optical, infrared, or radar modeling for detection, tracking, and signature analysis.
  • Perform orbital mechanics modeling including orbit determination, orbital maneuvering, and spacecraft flight dynamics.
  • Use scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, or similar) to automate workflows, perform data analysis, and interface between simulation tools.
  • Apply Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) techniques (e.g., supervised/unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, predictive modeling) to enhance simulation fidelity and performance.
  • Develop AI/ML models to analyze and predict satellite system behaviors, performance metrics, and mission outcomes based on simulation data.
  • Design and implement algorithms for anomaly detection, predictive maintenance, and optimization of satellite operations.
  • Use statistical and machine learning techniques to analyze data, identify patterns, and uncover insights relevant to satellite systems.
  • Integrate AI/ML models into existing simulation frameworks and tools to enhance their capabilities.
  • Provide value-added judgment and offer strategic recommendations to the customer on program objectives, advanced technologies, and system enhancements. 
  • Produce highly detailed, practical, and consistent deliverables that align with the organization's mission and objectives, with a focus on innovation and cutting-edge solutions in machine learning and simulation. 
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience; PhD and 0 years related experience. 
  • Active Top Secret/SCI w/Poly Clearance.
  • 3+ years of experience in modeling and simulation for aerospace or space systems.
  • Strong understanding of sensor phenomenology --such as optical, infrared, or radar systems --and associated modeling methods.
  • Intermediate Python programming experience, demonstrated through hands-on experience with tasks such as data manipulation, automation, and development of Python-based solutions. Experience with libraries such as NumPy, SciPy, pandas, and matplotlib is beneficial.
  • Ability to communicate technical results clearly in written and verbal formats.

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