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Simulator Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA

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

SAIC

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA · 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 execution and provide ...

NT Concepts

Simulation Specialist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Partner with system engineers, data scientists, operators, and mission planners to align simulation outputs with real-world operational needs * Translate mission needs into simulation requirements ...

NT Concepts

Simulation Specialist

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

Support the development and integration of cutting-edge AI capabilities with Digital Engineering ... MISSION FOCUS Modeling & Simulation Specialistsat NT Concepts help our clients explore new ideas ...

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$25

$53

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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.

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.
Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

Other

Posted 9 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 203 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: T2510923
Location: Chantilly, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-03-05
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Modeling/Sim Engr
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: No
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: 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 execution and provide technical expertise on a variety of Modeling and Simulation (M&S) topics, including system performance modeling, design analysis, scenario development, and data visualization. In this role, the successful candidate may also assist with Systems Engineering topics (e.g., requirements, configuration management, readiness, verification and validation, etc.) to ensure comprehensive continuity across multiple program activities. As a trusted advisor, the candidate will be required to deliver value-added judgment and provide well-informed recommendations to the customer on program objectives, technical strategies, and system capabilities. The successful candidate will produce thorough, actionable, and consistent deliverables that align with the organization's goals and objectives in the modeling and simulation domain. The successful candidate will:
  • 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.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (systems engineering, GNC, payload, mission design) to ensure model fidelity and consistency.
  • Generate technical documentation, simulation reports, and visualizations to communicate findings and support design decisions.
  • Support trade studies and design reviews by providing modeling insights into performance impacts of design changes.

Qualifications
?
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of professional technical experience
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of professional technical experience.
  • 3+ years of experience in modeling and simulation for aerospace or space systems.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI w/Poly Clearance.
  • 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.

SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

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