Principal Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Position Summary The Principal Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Engineer is responsible for the creation, maturation, and operation of the M&S environment for missile programs within the Kinetic Air and Missile Defense Division. Primary Responsibilities Develop and implement M&S environments for missile systems. Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams on software development and integration, including suppliers and government customers. Execute testing, data collection, and analysis, including hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) and multi‑functional testing. Develop a 6DoF (Six Degrees of Freedom) modeling and simulation environment for performance validation, GNC development, and HIL integration. Assist in the development and execution of test plans and reports, presenting data to both large and small audiences. Ensure the application of best practices and standards in system design and testing. Develop and mentor high‑performing engineering teams. Partner with functional leaders to drive process improvements across engineering development processes. Other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications Master's or PhD in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering (or equivalent). Experience with Defense products and customers, especially in C‑UAS products. Minimum 15 years of demonstrated experience in M&S engineering for missile or aerospace systems. Expertise in simulation and model development. Experience in GNC algorithm development, including guidance, navigation, and autopilot algorithms. Experience in an Agile and Waterfall development environment. Excellent verbal, presentation, and written communication skills. Experience in project planning covering schedule, budget, and resource estimations. Exceptional leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff. Ability to build strong relationships across disciplines within the organization. Effective influencing and negotiation skills when resources are not under direct control. Proficient with MS Office and other productivity tools. Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies Follows standard practices and procedures for data analysis. Completes assigned tasks within schedule and budget. Shares ideas and solicits feedback. Thrives in fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environments with small teams sharing broad duties. Displays strong initiative and drive to meet company objectives. Takes ownership of work products and seeks continuous improvement. Committed to learning from mistakes and enhancing performance. Team player focused on collaboration and delivering organizational goals. Inspires, motivates, and empowers team members. Physical Demands Work in office and manufacturing environments. Required to sit and stand for long periods (frequent). Required to talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (frequent). Travel required to domestic U.S. sites up to 10% of the time. Special Requirements U.S. citizenship required. Existing DoD Secret security clearance required. Secret clearance or ability to obtain one is desirable. Occasional travel within Continental U.S. may be required. Salary Range $133,500 - $189,525 Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage. 401(k) with company matching. 9/80 work schedule. Paid holiday shutdown. Security & ITAR The position requires access to information subject to ITAR and EAR compliance. Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person and have or be able to obtain a U.S. citizenship, Secret clearance, and export license approval as required by contract. EEO Statement AeroVironment, 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr AeroVironment, Inc.