Virtual Simulation Engineer – Principal Engineer

Northrop Grumman

. Develop and modify software for pilot-in-the-loop simulation of combat weapons systems employment .

Posted 11/11/2026full-timeMelbourne • Florida • United StatesLead💰 $79,300 - $147,600 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in developing and modifying software for real-time pilot-in-the-loop simulations, with a strong focus on integrating high-fidelity models of tactical aircraft and weapon systems. Proficient in translating complex physics and mathematics into effective simulation algorithms while collaborating within a virtual simulation team.

Highest-signal resume keywords

C++ ProgrammingReal-Time Simulation DevelopmentHardware/Software IntegrationTactical Aircraft UnderstandingActive DoD Top Secret Clearance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

C++C#JavaReal-Time Simulation Software DevelopmentSimulation Algorithm DevelopmentPhysics/Mathematics ModelingSystem Architecture RecommendationsVisualization Model DevelopmentComputer-Simulation Trade StudiesWeapon System-Level Design

Soft Skills

CollaborationTeamworkCommunication

Certifications & Qualifications

DoD Top Secret ClearanceSpecial Access Program (SAP) Clearance

Industry Keywords

Pilot-In-The-Loop SimulationCombat Weapons SystemsIntegrated Air Defense SystemsCommand and Control SystemsRapid Prototyping Environment

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

JavaC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and modify software for pilot-in-the-loop simulation of combat weapons systems employment
Design and implement real-time, pilot-in-the-loop simulation software for requirements validation and mission-level evaluation of next-generation tactical aircraft
Create or adapt simulation frameworks and modules for airframes, kinematics, sensors, weapons, C2, and threat models
Partner with domain subject-matter experts to translate aircraft and weapon physics into high-fidelity, real-time models
Integrate models into the overall simulation
Model operational environments and perform computer-simulation trade studies
Make recommendations for system architectures and configurations
Support the design and development of visualization models and databases for high-fidelity simulation integration
Collaborate within a close-knit virtual simulation team

Requirements

What you’ll need

Software Engineer: Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 2 years of relevant experience, or Master's degree in a STEM discipline
Principal Software Engineer: Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline with 5 years of relevant experience, or 3 years of relevant experience with a Master's degree in a STEM discipline
Demonstrated proficiency in C++ (preferred), C#, Java, or another object-oriented programming language
Active DoD Top Secret clearance with a background investigation completed within the last 6 years or current enrollment in Continuous Evaluation
Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance
Experience with real-time simulation/software development preferred
Experience with hardware/software integration preferred
Ability to translate physics/mathematics models into real-time simulation algorithms preferred
Understanding of tactical aircraft aero-performance, sensors, weapons, and/or communication systems preferred
Understanding of Integrated Air Defense Systems and capabilities preferred
Understanding of operational Command and Control systems and software preferred
Experience working with a team in a rapid prototyping environment preferred
Experience performing weapon system-level design, integration, and/or test and evaluation preferred
U.S. citizenship required for positions with a government clearance

Benefits

Comp & perks

Relocation assistance may be available
Flexible work arrangements
9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off
Phenomenal learning opportunities
Exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers
Friendly team environment
Overtime eligibility may apply
Shift differential may apply
Discretionary bonus may apply
Health insurance coverage
Life and disability insurance
Savings plan
Company-paid holidays
Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business