Software Engineering Manager (Modeling and Simulation)

True Anomaly; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare (100% employer-sponsored)

Time Off

Equity

401k and Roth 401k

Learning & Development

Job summary

True Anomaly is seeking an Engineering Manager, Software (Modeling and Simulation) to build and lead a team of engineers developing high‑fidelity physics‑based models and digital twins for spacecraft design, testing, and operations.

You will translate technical vision into execution, grow talent, and establish processes that enable scalable simulation tools aligned with the product roadmap while maintaining credibility with your team.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in modeling, simulation, or aerospace engineering.
• 4+ years in people management, leading teams of 4+ engineers.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration and leadership to drive alignment.
• U.S. Citizen and eligible for DoD Secret or TS/SCI clearance.
• Experience with physics-based modeling and simulation for aerospace/defense systems.

Responsibilities

• Build and lead a team of modeling and simulation engineers through recruiting, onboarding, and retention.
• Translate technical vision into execution and align with the broader simulation roadmap.
• Define modeling standards, best practices, and documentation requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement in team processes, tools, and workflows.

Skills

People management

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in aerospace/mechanical/systems engineering

PhD or Bachelor's with equivalent experience

Tools

Agile methodologies

Job description

• At True Anomaly, simulation is the backbone that connects how we design, test, operate, and train. From spacecraft engineering to real-time situational awareness through our Mosaic ground software, simulation underpins every decision and accelerates every mission
• As Engineering Manager, Software (Modeling and Simulation), you will build and lead a team of modeling and simulation engineers who develop high-fidelity physics-based models and digital twin capabilities that support spacecraft design, testing, and operations. You will be responsible for team growth, performance, and delivery while ensuring alignment with the broader simulation roadmap
• You will translate technical vision into execution, develop talent, and create the processes and culture that enable your team to deliver validated, scalable simulation tools that evolve with real-world data. Your primary focus is people leadership, with technical contributions focused on strategic direction, architecture reviews, and maintaining credibility with your team
• Technical Oversight & Strategic Contributions:
• Provide technical direction on modeling architecture, validation strategies, and integration approaches
• Review and approve technical designs, major architectural decisions, and model validation plans
• Participate in all aspects of a project’s development lifecycle, including design, implementation, and verification. Lead the team by example, setting the standard for technical work. (approximately 35% of time)
• Define modeling standards, best practices, and documentation requirements that embed simulation throughout the product lifecycle
• Strategic Planning & Execution:
• Define and own the team roadmap in collaboration with the Head of Simulation, balancing near-term delivery with long-term capability development
• Translate organizational strategy and technical vision into actionable team objectives and quarterly goals
• Prioritize work and allocate resources across competing demands
• Manage dependencies and coordinate with other engineering managers to ensure successful cross-functional delivery
• Track and communicate team progress, risks, and blockers to leadership and stakeholders
• Drive continuous improvement in team processes, tools, and workflows to increase velocity and quality
• Work with technical program managers to scope projects, estimate timelines, and commit to deliverables
• Team Leadership & People Management:
• Build, grow, and lead a team of modeling and simulation engineers through recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and retention
• Provide direct people management including 1-on-1s, performance reviews, goal setting, and career development
• Foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Develop individual contributors into technical leaders through mentorship, coaching, and growth opportunities
• Manage team dynamics, resolve conflicts, and ensure healthy team communication and collaboration
• Facilitate knowledge sharing, cross-training, and documentation practices to build team resilience and institutional knowledge

Benefits

• 100% Employer-Sponsored Healthcare: We’ve got you covered! Our comprehensive healthcare package is fully sponsored, ensuring you and your loved ones stay healthy and worry-free, so you can focus on shaping the future of space security.
• Generous Time Off: We believe in working hard and recharging fully. Our generous vacation policy gives you the flexibility to take the time you need to relax, explore, and come back energized to take on new challenges.
• Equity: Own an equity stake in True Anomaly as you build something transformative. With equity options, you’re not just working for True Anomaly; you’re an owner. As an essential part of our growth and future success, we want you to share in the upside potential!
• 401k and Roth 401k options: Plan for tomorrow with our 401K and Roth 401K options that put you in control of your financial future.
• Learning & Development Opportunities: Your growth fuels our innovation. We’re committed to providing you with the resources and training to expand your skills, spark new ideas, and advance your career with us.

Collaboration: Strong cross-functional collaboration skills with ability to build relationships, resolve conflicts, and drive consensusExperience: 8+ years of experience in modeling, simulation, or aerospace engineering with at least 4 years in people management, leading teams of 4+ engineersPeople Management: Demonstrated track record of building, growing, and developing high-performing engineering teams including hiring, performance management, and career developmentLeadership: Proven ability to lead through influence, manage stakeholder expectations, drive execution in ambiguous environments, and deliver results through othersEducation: Master’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, or systems engineering, physics, applied mathematics, or related technical field; Ph.D. or Bachelor’s degree with equivalent professional experience also acceptedTechnical Foundation: Strong foundation in spacecraft system modeling and simulation with depth in areas such as orbital mechanics, attitude dynamics, thermal analysis, power systems, or propulsion (sufficient to provide technical oversight and credibility)Strategic Thinking: Ability to translate business objectives into team strategy, prioritize competing demands, and make trade-offs that balance technical excellence with deliveryProcess & Execution: Track record of defining processes, establishing team norms, and driving operational excellence in fast-paced environmentsClearance: U.S. Citizen and eligible for DoD Secret or TS/SCI clearanceCommunication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to influence senior leadership, translate between technical and non-technical audiences, and represent the team effectivelyDomain Knowledge: Experience with physics-based modeling, simulation frameworks, and validation methodologies for complex aerospace or defense systemsExperience managing geographically distributed or hybrid teamsTrack record delivering complex, multi-quarter initiatives requiring coordination across multiple teamsExperience managing teams through full product development lifecycles from concept through operationsExperience with agile methodologies, sprint planning, and iterative delivery in engineering environmentsBackground in spacecraft flight dynamics, mission design, GNC algorithm development, or digital twin developmentExperience with modeling and simulation for space domain awareness, proximity operations, or constellation managementBackground partnering with product management to define requirements and prioritize featuresExperience with resource planning, capacity modeling, and headcount justification