Principal Simulation Engineer

Job description

About the Role We are seeking a Principal, Head of Simulation to architect and build an end-to-end aerial autonomy simulation stack at DoorDash Labs. This is a highly technical, hands-on leadership role focused on defining and implementing the simulation architecture that underpins autonomy development, validation, CI/CD testing, and pilot training. You will operate as the technical authority for simulation: owning core architecture decisions, developing key components yourself, and setting engineering standards. You will build and mentor a small, high-caliber simulation team while remaining deeply involved in implementation and system design. This role is ideal for someone who has built simulation systems from first principles, understands simulator internals deeply, and is excited to create a world-class platform from scratch. Key Responsibilities: - Architect and implement an end-to-end simulation stack for aerial autonomy at DoorDash Labs.. Develop high-fidelity simulation capabilities, including: - Flight dynamics modeling - Contact modeling and constraint handling - Sensor and perception simulation - Autonomy software-in-the-loop (SITL) integration - Design and implement scal...