Lead Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Job Overview

Lead Modeling and Simulation Engineer for the Next Generation Counter Uncrewed Aerial System Missile (NGCM) within Aero Vironment’s Kinetic Effectors Group. The role oversees the Modeling and Simulation Team through requirements analysis, development, and oversight of flight software models, collaborating with cross‑functional engineering teams, government customers, and suppliers in a mission‑critical environment.

• Analyze and evaluate missile performance through trade studies, performance assessments, and conceptual studies using modeling and simulation tools.
• Support the GNC team with design, analysis, and implementation of GNC algorithms, including autopilot design, trajectory optimization, and navigation filters.
• Develop and validate 6‑DOF missile simulation models covering aerodynamics, propulsion, and sensor systems.
• Integrate GNC software with hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) simulations and flight hardware.
• Collaborate with missile system engineers to conduct trade and performance studies across the missile mission space.
• Shape missile test and evaluation activities, including scenario development and pre/post flight analysis.
• Lead mission analysis efforts for system verification and validation.
• Analyze system performance under various mission scenarios and environmental conditions.
• Work with systems, software, hardware, and test engineers throughout the full development lifecycle.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and peer review within the GNC team.
• Prepare and present technical documentation, reports, and design reviews for internal and external stakeholders.
• Oversee system verification and validation, including test planning, execution, and analysis.
• Participate in proposal development and assist with plans and specifications.
• Collaborate with cross‑discipline teams to advise government and contractor partners on engineering challenges and design trades.
• Produce reports and presentations to communicate study results to team members and government partners.

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 8–12 years of relevant professional experience.
• U.S. citizenship with an active Secret security clearance (or the ability to obtain one).
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++, and simulation tools for GNC development, 6‑DOF, and Monte‑Carlo simulation.
• Experience developing and utilizing modeling and simulation tools for mission and engineering‑level studies.
• Familiarity with flight vehicle physics and dynamics.
• Experience with verification and validation of modeling and simulation tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and time‑management skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with integrity and confidentiality.
• Willingness to travel for supplier reviews, customer meetings, and test events.

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Experience with Software‑in‑the‑Loop (SWIL) and/or Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HWIL) simulations.
• Experience working in classified computing environments.
• Clearance Level Secret.

$133,500 – $189,525

Medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match; 9/80 work schedule; paid holiday shutdown. Detailed benefit information is available at

ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR/EAR or be approved for an export license by the governing agency.

Aero Vironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status.

U.S. Citizenship is required. Secret or Top Secret clearance, or the ability to obtain one, is desired.