ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Simulator Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ManTech International

Simulation Developer

Quantico, VA · On-site

$141K - $236K/yr

As a Simulation Developer, you will serve as a trusted advisor to our customers, ensuring the technical architecture of wargames is robust and reliable while directly shaping the tools used to ...

EXPANSIA

On-Site, Fort Eustis, VA Aether Aerospace is seeking a Physical Modeling & Simulation Engineer to support our Aviation customer within the Mission Systems Division (MSD), Technology Development ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSimulator Engineer JobsSimulator Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Simulator Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$25

$53

$76

How much do simulator engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 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 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 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
Simulation Developer

Simulation Developer

ManTech International

Quantico, VA • On-site

$141K - $236K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

ManTech rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 209 rated software companies

Job description

General information
Requisition #
R68539
Locations
USA-VA-Quantico
Posting Date
06/09/2026
Security Clearance Required
TS/SCI
Remote Type
Onsite
Time Type
Full time
Description & Requirements
Shape the future of defense with MANTECH! Join a team dedicated to safeguarding our nation through advanced tech and innovative solutions. Since 1968, we've been a trusted partner to the Department of Defense, delivering cutting-edge projects that make a real impact. Dive into exciting opportunities in Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics and more. Propel your career forward and be part of something extraordinary. Your journey starts now-protect and innovate with MANTECH!
MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented SIMULATION DEVELOPER to join our team in QUANTICO, VA
Join a high-impact team supporting the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab's transition to digital wargaming. As a Simulation Developer, you will serve as a trusted advisor to our customers, ensuring the technical architecture of wargames is robust and reliable while directly shaping the tools used to prepare Marines for the future fight.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Designs, develops, and sustains simulation models and environments using a variety of programming languages, tools, and data sources
  • Integrates models and simulations into larger system architectures and supports Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL) Wargaming Division efforts for interoperability testing and model orchestration
  • Collaborates with engineers, analysts, and operational subject matter experts to enhance model fidelity and ensure simulation accuracy
  • Implements new features, conducts model testing and validation, and troubleshoots issues across evolving simulation platforms
  • Leads and supports planning, coordination, and documentation activities for simulation projects, including data collection, stakeholder alignment, and capability tracking

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Game Development, or a related technical field
  • Minimum of 7 years of software development experience focused on simulation or game-based environments. A total of 10 years' experience without a degree.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, C#, Python, or Java
  • Experience with simulation platforms or engines such as AFSIM, NGTS, OneSAF, Unity, Unreal Engine, Simio, or Arena
  • Familiarity with version control systems and collaborative software development workflows

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Understanding of modeling and simulation principles in military or operational contexts
  • Familiarity with mission engineering, wargaming, campaign analysis, or Naval Capabilities Integration Process (NCIP), and associated military systems/processes
  • Knowledge of 3D graphics, physics engines, and database management systems (e.g., SQL)
  • Experience applying Agile or Scrum development methodologies in simulation projects
  • Strong communication, analytical, and cross-functional collaboration skills

Clearance Requirements:
  • Must possess a current/active TS/SCI security clearance.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able and willing to perform occasional manual labor and warehouse duties, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
  • Needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
  • Frequently communicates with co-workers, management, and customers, which may involve delivering presentations. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations

The projected compensation range for this position is $141,500.00-$236,000.00. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, MANTECH invests in its employees beyond just compensation. MANTECH's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, short-term and long-term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.
MANTECH considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at careers@mantech.com and provide your name and contact information.

What ManTech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply