> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1956319-virtual-simulation-software-engineer-principal-virtual-simulati](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1956319-virtual-simulation-software-engineer-principal-virtual-simulati). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Virtual Simulation Software Engineer/ Principal Virtual Simulati - **Company:** Northrop Grumman - **Location:** Melbourne, FL, United States - **Salary:** $79,300.0 - $118,900.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), C Sharp (Programming Language), C++ (Programming Language), Computer Simulation, Databases, Python (Programming Language), Kinematics, Object-Oriented Software Development, Rapid Prototyping Process, Software Tools, Real Time Simulation, Simulation Software, Software Engineering, Systems Architecture, Systems Integration, Programming Languages - **Published:** August 6, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9080803/virtual-simulation-software-engineer-principal-virtual-simulati ## About the Role * Software Engineer : Bachelor of Science degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) discipline and 2 years of experience OR a Master of Science degree in a STEM discipline. * Principal Software Engineer : Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline and 5 years of experience OR a Master of Science degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of experience OR a PhD in a STEM discipline with 1 year of experience * Must have experience in computer/engineering software development using C++ (preferred), C#, Java or other object-oriented computer languages. * Your ability to transfer and maintain the final adjudicated U.S. government Top Secret clearance (must be in-scope or enrolled in Continuous Evaluation) and any program access(es) required for the position within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the Company., * Experience with real-time simulation/software development * Experience with hardware/software integration, especially integration of aircraft hardware into a lab/simulation environment * Ability to translate physics/mathematics models into real-time simulation algorithms * An understanding of tactical aircraft aero-performance, sensors, weapons, and/or communication systems * An understanding of Integrated Air Defense Systems and capabilities * An understanding of operational Command and Control systems and software * Experience working with a team in a rapid prototyping environment * Experience performing weapon system level design, integration, and/or test & evaluation ## Description The Virtual Simulation Team's mission is to provide our warfighter customer with a realistic aircraft simulation and tactical environment to assess operational suitability and develop preliminary concepts of employment. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and modifying software for use in pilot-in-the-loop simulation of combat weapons systems employment. The simulation software is primarily written in C++ along with some applications in other high level programming languages (Java, Python, etc.). The Virtual Simulation lab supports a relatively small, close-knit team of 14 software developers, 4 lab engineers, and 10-12 other regular users. This highly dynamic work environment requires software engineers with a diverse set of complementing skills, commitment to the small team dynamic, and a strong desire to learn new skills. Essential Functions: * Design and implement real-time, pilot-in-the-loop simulation software that enables requirements validation and mission-level evaluation of next-gen tactical aircraft * Create or adapt simulation frameworks and modules (e.g., airframe, kinematics, sensors, weapons, C2, threat models) * Partner with domain SMEs to translate aircraft/weapon physics into high-fidelity, real-time models and integrate them into the overall simulation * Model operational environments and perform trade studies via computer simulation resulting in recommendations for system architectures and configurations * Support the design and development of visualization models and databases for integration with a high-fidelity simulation environment We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-directed professionals who thrive in collaborative environments. ## Related Videos - [Kubernetes and Microservices with Multi-Model Databases](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/382-kubernetes-and-microservices-with-multi-model-databases) - [How I built my own intelligent Robot Arm from Scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100097-how-i-built-my-own-intelligent-robot-arm-from-scratch) - [ Secure Code Superstars: Empowering Developers and Surpassing Security Challenges Together](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/422-secure-code-superstars-empowering-developers-and-surpassing-security-challenges-together) - [Enhancing AI-based Robotics with Simulation Workflows](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/472-enhancing-ai-based-robotics-with-simulation-workflows) - [Fault Tolerance and Consistency at Scale: Harnessing the Power of Distributed SQL Databases](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1146-fault-tolerance-and-consistency-at-scale-harnessing-the-power-of-distributed-sql-databases) - [Strange New Worlds: shaping the future of the digital age](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/677-strange-new-worlds-shaping-the-future-of-the-digital-age) ## Related Articles - [What Jobs Can You Get with a Software Engineering Degree?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/398-what-jobs-can-you-get-with-a-software-engineering-degree) - [How Much Does a Software Engineer Make? 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