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Simulator Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Senior Simulation Engineer

Louisville, CO · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Senior Simulation Engineer Department: Autonomous Systems Employment Type: Full Time Location: Boulder County Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 / year Description As a Simulation Engineer , you will ...

Senior Simulation Engineer

Louisville, CO · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Description As a Simulation Engineer , you will be responsible for developing and maintaining high-fidelity simulations of space vehicle dynamics, sensors, actuators, and propulsion systems, with the ...

As a Simulation Engineer , you will be responsible for developing and maintaining high-fidelity simulations of space vehicle dynamics, sensors, actuators, and propulsion systems, with the potential ...

As a Mission Simulation Engineer III, you will take a lead role in implementing and continuously improving an integrated simulation framework spanning orbital mechanics, spacecraft power modeling ...

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Simulator Engineer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$26

$55

$78

How much do simulator engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for simulator engineer in Denver, CO is $55.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.52 and $64.09 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 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 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 Denver, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,807 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Senior Simulation Engineer

Louisville, CO • On-site

Impulse Space
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 1 hour ago


Job description

Senior Simulation Engineer
Department: Autonomous Systems
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Boulder County
Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 / year
Description
As a Simulation Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining high-fidelity simulations of space vehicle dynamics, sensors, actuators, and propulsion systems, with the potential to expand into other subsystems. You will work closely with GNC, software, and test teams to ensure accurate modeling and analysis to support design, verification, and mission planning efforts for Mira, Helios, and more.
Responsibilities
  • Develop physics-based models of vehicle dynamics, reaction systems, propulsion systems, and other subsystems as needed.
  • Integrate simulation framework into hardware-in-the-loop testbeds.
  • Collaborate with engineers across disciplines to validate simulation models and behaviors against analysis and test data.
  • Support system-level analysis, trade studies, and performance assessments.
  • Contribute to software and tool development to improve simulation workflows.
  • Provide simulation support for verification and validation of flight software.
  • Participate in simulation reviews, test readiness reviews, and mission dress rehearsals.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Math, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of experience in modeling and simulation of physical systems.
  • Proficiency in C++ and Python.
  • Strong understanding of dynamics, thermodynamics, and/or fluid mechanics.
  • Experience with version control systems such as Git.
  • Experience with LabView.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree or higher in a relevant field.
  • Experience with space vehicle dynamics, propulsion, and/or thermal systems modeling.
  • Familiarity with multi-disciplinary simulation tools (e.g., Modelica, Simscape, or Amesim).
  • Experience with software-in-the-loop (SIL) or hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing environments.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and manage multiple priorities.
  • Experience in developing with NI-DAQmx APIs.

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space's spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.