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Job outlook for simulation engineers in the United States
Are simulation engineer jobs in demand?
Simulation Engineer job and salary trends over time
Simulation Engineer jobs over time
Simulation Engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 3,013 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 3,225 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 3,362 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 3,402 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 3,498 | 0.00% |
Average simulation engineer salary over time
Simulation Engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $97,266 | $46.76 | +1.8% |
| 2024 | $95,535 | $45.93 | +1.1% |
| 2023 | $94,486 | $45.43 | +1.9% |
| 2022 | $92,690 | $44.56 | +3.1% |
| 2021 | $89,918 | $43.23 | +1.7% |
Simulation Engineer jobs by state
Most common states for simulation engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 208 | 30% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 767 | 9% |
| 3 | Delaware | 961,939 | 83 | 9% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 464 | 8% |
| 5 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 494 | 7% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 491 | 7% |
| 7 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 279 | 7% |
| 8 | California | 39,536,653 | 2,484 | 6% |
| 9 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 357 | 6% |
| 10 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 231 | 5% |
| 11 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 165 | 5% |
| 12 | Vermont | 623,657 | 32 | 5% |
| 13 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 263 | 4% |
| 14 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 202 | 4% |
| 15 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 68 | 4% |
| 16 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 68 | 4% |
| 17 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 60 | 4% |
| 18 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 25 | 4% |
| 19 | Texas | 28,304,596 | 858 | 3% |
| 20 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 35 | 3% |
Most common cities for simulation engineers
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Balch Springs | 3 | 12% | $109,768 |
| 2 | Huntsville | 17 | 9% | $94,187 |
| 3 | Duncanville | 3 | 8% | $109,883 |
| 4 | Coppell | 3 | 7% | $109,848 |
| 5 | Cedar Hill | 3 | 6% | $109,908 |
| 6 | Cupertino | 3 | 5% | $125,409 |
| 7 | Cambridge | 4 | 4% | $102,911 |
| 8 | Orlando | 6 | 2% | $79,666 |
| 9 | Carrollton | 3 | 2% | $109,793 |
| 10 | Seattle | 9 | 1% | $106,082 |
| 11 | San Francisco | 8 | 1% | $126,274 |
| 12 | Denver | 7 | 1% | $102,387 |
| 13 | Tucson | 7 | 1% | $100,774 |
| 14 | Atlanta | 3 | 1% | $82,185 |
| 15 | Colorado Springs | 3 | 1% | $103,545 |
| 16 | San Diego | 5 | 0% | $107,779 |
| 17 | Dallas | 4 | 0% | $109,819 |
Simulation Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of simulation engineer experts
Seattle University
University of Minnesota - Duluth
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Weber State University
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Duke University
University of South Alabama
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
University of Cincinnati
Manhattan College
University of Washington
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
University of Alaska Fairbanks
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Julie Brandis: Oregon State University provides support in salary negotiation, also students can work with mentors who are familiar with company hiring practices and wage structures. If you have internship experience, that can help to boost your starting salary.
Christopher Misorski FASM
Brunswick Technical Fellow-Materials Product Development & EngineeringWhat will help Simulation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Christopher Misorski FASM: Maximizing salary potential at the start of your career is not a clear pathway generally. One way that you can be considered more valuable, and hence worth a better salary, is to have participated in a co-op or internship program with a company in your field. This experience gives employers some confidence that you were able to carry out assignments and thrive in a workplace environment. The employer that you worked for may be inclined to offer you a position upon graduation and you are now worth more because you have already proven to them your abilities. Even if they don’t offer you a job (no appropriate open position may be available) your ability to discuss your experiences with the HR recruiter or hiring manager at another company can instill confidence in your selection as a hire. Just remember, if you tell them you did a project, be prepared to explain it so it doesn’t appear you were just in the background of this project, just going along for the ride.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ms. Tracee Friess A.V.P.: Aerospace Engineers use knowledge of physics, mathematics, chemistry and other science and non-science disciplines to design flight and space vehicles for specific applications.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Thomas Congedo PhD: That comes from your ability to focus on technical product of the highest quality, always seeking to truly understand the customer’s needs. For example, often a customer will phrase a problem by stating the solution he or she assumes. Taking the time to respectfully draw out the thinking further can make you the customer’s hero, and this makes you the person likely to be selected for the challenging and most rewarded assignments.
Jhon Smith
Associate Professor and Director of MS in Structural EngineeringSeattle University
Civil Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Jhon Smith: Do not be afraid to ask questions to your supervisors (although do not take it to an extreme and become demanding—show initiative). You get the fundamentals of engineering at school and you are equipped to use them but it takes a few years to feel comfortable. Engineering is a profession of practice and it is only through practice that you best learn it.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jhon Smith: Expand your network, join professional organizations and committees, become valuable in whatever company you work for, never stop learning, seek for opportunities for professional work, get your PE license. After these you will become more valuable naturally and could comfortably ask for a promotion or a salary increase because you’d know you deserve it.
What will help Simulation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Richard Davis: Engineering offers career opportunities across various industries, from technology and healthcare to infrastructure and environmental sustainability. With technological advancements and the increasing complexity of global challenges, such as climate change, food and clean water, and urbanization, engineers are in high demand to develop innovative solutions. For example, environmental engineers are crucial in developing sustainable solutions to reduce pollution and conserve resources. Engineering provides opportunities for creativity and problem-solving, making it a rewarding career choice for those who enjoy tackling complex problems. The global focus on sustainability and renewable energy presents exciting prospects for engineers to contribute to meaningful projects that positively impact society and the environment.
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Mishah Salman Ph.D.: An underappreciated skill that I think will become more sought-after is the ability to validate computer-made decisions and their shortcomings. With the growing prominence of AI use in design, problem solving, and decision making, the engineering field will need experts to error-check decisions made using these technologies. Sometimes there are unexplored gaps that these technologies overlook, and sometimes there are biases or inappropriate assumptions baked into AI-based results. Humans are inherently imaginative and creative. We excel at picking up on things that computer algorithms may miss. Talented experts that recognize and address these issues will remain invaluable in the workforce. Another indispensable skill that is often overlooked in engineering is effective interpersonal communication. Whether in a teamwork context, a leadership role, or a client interaction, competent communication is crucial. This can take the form of conversation, live presentations, written correspondence, and beyond. People that hone their communication skills are often recognized, and tend to be the individuals that are promoted to more senior roles.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mishah Salman Ph.D.: To maximize salary potential, I recommend growing your professional network and being flexible within your career. Attending professional gatherings and rubbing shoulders goes a very long way. It’s amazing how you can casually bump into some well-respected team leader that’s trying to fill an opening or glean information about a new project that needs fresh talent. Network with people in diverse fields and roles. You never know who knows who. Making a positive impression and having someone recognize your name down the line can go a very long way!
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mansooreh Mollaghasemi Ph.D.: Concurrent with building technical skills, they must build soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. These skills are often the differentiators between good and great engineers.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Megumi Usui: Given the rapid advancement in AI technology, its potential integration into the drafting and design field remains uncertain in terms of timing and methodology. However, if and when AI becomes a significant component of this industry, it will be crucial to find ways to collaborate effectively with AI systems to leverage their capabilities for the betterment of society. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, this collaborative approach will be essential. In this evolving landscape, proficiency in CAD skills remains indispensable. It is important to emphasize that CAD expertise extends beyond mere modeling; professionals must also ensure that their designs are sustainable and adhere to the latest industry standards. This holistic approach is critical for addressing contemporary challenges and aligning with global sustainability goals. Moreover, the significance of complementary skills such as effective communication and time management cannot be overstated. These competencies are vital for the successful execution of projects and fostering productive collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. By integrating technical proficiency with these essential soft skills, professionals can excel in an increasingly dynamic and competitive environment, positioning themselves to adapt to future technological advancement.
What will help Simulation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Megumi Usui: Even after obtaining a degree, it is crucial to recognize that continuous learning is a fundamental aspect of professional development in the workplace. One must cultivate an open-minded attitude and demonstrate a willingness to acquire new knowledge and skills at any time and in any context. Effective communication with colleagues and clients is essential for successful collaboration and project execution. It is important to understand that the professional environment is significantly different from the academic setting. In a company, the focus is delivering work that meets the expectations and standards set by the employer and satisfies the needs of clients, rather than merely fulfilling personal criteria. Furthermore, it is imperative to produce high-quality work consistently. Mediocre performance is unacceptable, and organizations will not hesitate to seek replacements if the work delivered does not meet their standards. Ensuring that your work is thorough, precise, and aligns with the company's objectives is critical for maintaining the position and advancing their career.
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Michael Denn: 1. Become the expert in whatever you do. 2. Understand how your work fits into the bigger picture and keep that in mind when you do your work. 3. Keep learning! Your engineering degree is not the end of your education! 4. Take stretch assignments and opportunities whenever you can.
What will help Simulation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Michael Denn: The answers to this question are largely the same as the answer to question 1. However, here are some additional points: 1. Excel in your job. Become the person everyone goes to for whatever type of work you do. 2. Develop and maintain a career plan. Make sure your assignments and tasks align with your plan. When you have the opportunity to change positions, keep you plan in mind.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Jimmie Lenz D.B.A.: Engineering encompasses so many areas of modern life that it’s impossible to provide a comprehensive answer here. The training that engineers receive, both the technical and the applied nature, make these individuals quite attractive to all types of industries. Perhaps the most surprising to many people are the significant number of engineers employed in financial services.
Edmund Spencer
Associate ProfessorUniversity of South Alabama
Electrical, Electronics, And Communications Engineering
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Edmund Spencer: Look for jobs that have the highest technical content, and try to develop entrepreneurial skills early.
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Daniel Armentrout: The excessive number of baby boomer engineers are retiring at high rates and you as a new engineering graduate are desperately needed to make up for their loss in the workforce. You will face challenges in your career we could not anticipate or prepare you for in your education. You will have to adapt and continue to learn new fields of study which did not exist when you graduated. We have given you tools to learn and you will have to use those tools to remain relevant throughout your career. Find your place as an engineer when you can be effective, help humanity, and have fun. Plot a career path where you can utilize your strengths and challenge your mind to do new things. Contribute to making a better world and you will be able to enjoy immense satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Daniel Armentrout: Expanded use of swarms of cheap sensors that communicate on multiple platforms for better understanding and control of complicated systems. Integrated use of artificial intelligence to increase our effectiveness in all aspects of our jobs.
What will help Simulation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Ahmed Temani: The petroleum engineering industry is moving rapidly towards data-driven decision-making, digitalization, and sustainability. Skills in data analysis, automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be increasingly used to optimize processes. Demand is also rising for knowledge and technologies related to sustainability and clean energy.
Paul Orkwis
DrUniversity of Cincinnati
Aerospace, Aeronautical, And Astronautical/Space Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Paul Orkwis: With the advent of digital design and simulation, it is extremely important to remain skeptical of analyses that come out of a computer. By that I mean it is important to look for ways to check whether results are correct. It is tempting to take results at face value and not question their validity, but it is in asking how one knows the result is correct that they learn about quality. I also think that finding ways to exploit technology so that it works for you and simplifies your life is critical. Using coding co-pilots, for example, allows you to be more productive when writing software and information retrieval using AI will be a trusted tool in the near future. Verifying accuracy so that you can trust their help is vital.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Paul Orkwis: My first advice for a graduate is to continue to think like a student, that is, continue to learn. Aerospace Engineering is a highly dynamic field that is truly on the cutting edge. Skills that are valuable now may not be valuable in 5-10 years. The successful engineer will look for opportunities to learn new things and improve their skillset.
What will help Simulation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Paul Orkwis: Have skills and be willing to do things that might at first appear to be uninteresting. Engineers are paid for what they know, and sometimes that means you need to do some of the less pleasant tasks in order to learn the basics is extremely important. When opportunities for learning present themselves, open that door, it will pay dividends in the end.
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Saeed Khan: First of all, find a position that corresponds to their technical interests for the long run. Carefully seek out what the expectations of their chosen position are and identify the gaps in skills and knowledge required. Work ceaselessly to gain proficiencies that allow them to excel using every resource at hand.
What Simulation Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Saeed Khan: Keeping up with the latest technology in materials, control systems, airframes, and communication systems as it relates to their responsibility is essential alongside development of people skills and communication facilities that help them market their ideas to their team.
What will help Simulation Engineers increase their earning potential?
Saeed Khan: Engineering Technology graduates are valued for their ability to implement and breadboard better than engineers by companies that hire from both majors based on survey data. Employers more familiar with these attributes and who value these skills will be pre-disposed to offering good salary and benefits to new graduates.
What general advice would you give to a Simulation Engineer?
Dr. John Leylegian Ph.D.: The most important skills revolve around computer literacy. Know how to code. Know how to use industry standard software packages... and don't think that if you don't know a particular language or software that it will automatically exclude you from a new position. Engineers should love to learn how to do new things, and switching from one software to another is not a difficult thing. There is a learning curve, but knowing how to interpret results (and to detect garbage in - garbage out situations) is much more important. And find how to incorporate AI into your work. If used smartly and ethically, AI can be a great labor-saving tool. However, know that AI isn't foolproof, and again, be able to properly interpret results from an AI engine to avoid costly mistakes.
What skills stand out on Simulation Engineer resumes?
Marco Salviato Ph.D.: I ask and I get asked this question a lot. Of course excellent academic performance goes a long way but it is not enough to be competitive. Most of the industrial partners I collaborate with tell me they are looking for "problem solvers", engineers who have strong fundamentals and who know how to apply them to solve engineering problems. They also look for "soft skills" such as project management experience, excellence in reporting scientific results and outcome of projects, leadership skills, and ability to work in a team.
My advice to students to nurture these skills is to engage as early as possible with student clubs such as UW Design Build Fly (DBF) or SARP (Society for Advanced Rocket Propulsion). Another good idea is to get involved as soon as possible in research activities conducted by faculty in the Department. Finally, I cannot stress enough the importance of participating in summer internships at aerospace companies. For all these activities to be relevant, it is important to make sure there are tangible outcomes and the contribution of the student is evident. A sentence such as, "I worked in a team of twenty people to design a new concept of bracket for an aerospace hydraulic fuel system. I was the leader of a team of five people in charge of the structural design. Leveraging Finite Element Analysis we were able to reduce the weight of the bracket of more than 50 percent compared to legacy design. In addition to the FEM simulations, my responsibilities included organizing weekly meetings with the team to discuss progress, deliverables, and timeline, presenting the results to the company, and writing monthly scientific reports" really stands out in a resume. All the industrial partners I work with told me that having these experiences with tangible outcomes in the resume is one of the key deciding factors for a new hire.
Charles Jenckes
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte
Mechanical Engineering
What skills stand out on Simulation Engineer resumes?
Charles Jenckes: For new graduates
1.Where the candidate went to school and what was studied
2.GPA
3.Any successful internships
4.Projects completed by the student
How would you rate the starting salaries for Simulation Engineers, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Daisy Huang: Above average, but you won't be a millionaire easily (you can with some effort, saving, and investing well). It is very unlikely you'll ever be *super* wealthy, but it's also very unlikely you'll ever not find employment in your field. You'll have a solid ticket to a modestly comfortable life, with some luxuries, too.