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Weather Simulation Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a Simulation Software Engineer to join our Simulation Software (SSW) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This motivated and ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$92K - $174K/yr

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a Simulation Software Engineer to join our Simulation Software (SSW) Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This motivated and ...

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Weather Simulation Software Engineer information

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$74K

$137.8K

$197K

How much do weather simulation software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for weather simulation software engineer in the United States is $137,846.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $162,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a weather simulation software engineer do?

A Weather Simulation Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems used to model and predict weather patterns. They work with meteorological data and computational algorithms to create accurate simulations of atmospheric conditions. Their role often involves collaborating with scientists, optimizing code for high-performance computing environments, and ensuring the reliability of simulation results. These engineers help improve weather forecasting and contribute to research in climate science.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics for a weather simulation software engineer within a project team?

As a Weather Simulation Software Engineer, you will frequently collaborate with atmospheric scientists, data analysts, and other software engineers. Your role typically involves translating scientific requirements into robust code, integrating new models or features, and troubleshooting simulation results with domain experts. Regular meetings and code reviews are common, and you may also work closely with IT staff to optimize simulations on high-performance computing systems. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as interdisciplinary collaboration is key to the success of weather simulation projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weather simulation software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Weather Simulation Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, numerical modeling, and atmospheric science, typically with a relevant degree. Proficiency in programming languages like Python, C++, or Fortran, experience with high-performance computing (HPC) environments, and familiarity with weather modeling frameworks such as WRF or GFS are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help in collaborating with scientists and interpreting complex data. These skills ensure accurate, efficient development and implementation of weather simulation tools critical for research and forecasting.

What is the difference between Weather Simulation Software Engineer vs Climate Model Developer?

AspectWeather Simulation Software EngineerClimate Model Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Meteorology, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Atmospheric Science, Climate Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, government agencies focusing on short-term weather predictionResearch institutions, environmental agencies working on long-term climate modeling
Industry UsageWeather forecasting, disaster preparedness, aviation, agricultureClimate research, policy planning, environmental impact assessments

Weather Simulation Software Engineers focus on developing models for short-term weather prediction, while Climate Model Developers work on long-term climate projections. Both roles require strong programming skills and meteorological knowledge but differ in their application and scope.

What are popular job titles related to Weather Simulation Software Engineer jobs?

For Weather Simulation Software Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Weather Simulation Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,846 per year, or $66.3 per hour.

Simulation Software Engineer

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop physics-based models, algorithms, and simulations using modern software engineering practices.

  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary engineers and simulation architecture experts to design solutions to critical challenges.

  • Adapt simulations and algorithms to run on high-performance systems or integrate with test hardware.

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 75 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you a versatile developer who wants to apply modern software practices to solve critical, real-world challenges in strike weapon technology?
Are you a software engineer who is naturally curious about how things work and loves collaborating with experts to build the right scientific computing solutions?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
The Strike Guidance, Navigation, Control, and Seekers group is looking for a Simulation Software Engineer to help us architect, develop, and modernize physics-based simulations across a wide-ranging set of programs. Our group's goal is to ensure the United States has a distinct technology advantage in autonomous systems by leading the next generation of development and prototyping. We do this by providing world class design solutions with a focus on:
  • Guidance, Navigation, and Controls
  • Radio Frequency (RF) and Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Sensors
  • Modeling and Simulation (M&S)
  • Hardware/Software Development & Test
  • Multi-Disciplinary Design Optimization

We develop and apply simulations to explore these areas across a variety of systems including hypersonic missiles, submarines, cruise missiles, and autonomous flight vehicles. As a member of our team, you will apply advanced programming techniques and design skills to develop sophisticated simulations and algorithms in many or all of these domains. We are committed to developing exceptional talent and fostering a culture of innovation, and as part of our group, you will have a chance to grow your expertise across these technologies.
As a Simulation Software Engineer, you will...
  • Develop physics-based models, algorithms, and simulations, applying modern software engineering practices and next-generation technologies to advance our capabilities.
  • Work closely with our cross-disciplinary team of engineers as well as simulation architecture experts across the lab to design innovate solutions to critical challenges.
  • Adapt simulations and algorithms to run on high-performance systems (such as cluster compute environments) or to integrate with test hardware.

Qualifications
You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Have professional experience developing simulations or other scientific computing applications using C++ or a similar language.
  • Have proficiency with a high-level programming language such as Matlab/Simulink or Python.
  • Have experience developing software both individually and as part of a collaborative team, applying standard software engineering practices such as version control, CI/CD, test development, and containerization.
  • Are passionate about scientific computing and eager to learn domain-specific topics including guidance, navigation, control, and seekers.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a Top Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government secret clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have an MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Have at least one year of professional experience developing simulations or other scientific computing applications using object oriented C++.
  • Have experience developing physics-based kinematic simulations (i.e. 6DOF), IR and RF seeker simulations, or simulations involving GNC algorithms.
  • Have experience designing, training, and deploying machine learning solutions to real-world problems, utilizing tools and frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.
  • Have experience in one or more of the following areas: high performance computing (HPC); Nvidia CUDA or other GPU programming; FPGA programming; highly concurrent systems; signal processing; writing software that interfaces with embedded systems hardware or other hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations.
  • Are skilled developing software in both Linux and Windows environments using CMake and Visual Studio.
  • Currently possess an active Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance.

#LI-AG1
About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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