Project Manager in Simi Valley, CA

As a career analyst who’s watched Simi Valley’s job market evolve from a quiet suburb into a tech-adjacent hub, I can tell you that Project Managers here aren’t just managing timelines—they’re navigating a unique local economy. It’s a place where you can live in a pastoral neighborhood and still be a 45-minute freeway drive from the heart of Los Angeles’ project management ecosystem. This guide is built on hard data and local insights to help you decide if this corner of Ventura County fits your career and life.

The Salary Picture: Where Simi Valley Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers. The median salary for a Project Manager in Simi Valley is $105,381/year, with an hourly rate of $50.66/hour. This sits slightly above the national average of $101,280/year, reflecting the California premium and the area's growing technical and manufacturing sectors. The metro area, which includes Simi Valley and surrounding communities, has about 250 active Project Manager jobs, indicating a stable but not hyper-competitive market.

Job growth over the next decade is projected at 6%, which is steady—driven by the expansion of local healthcare, defense contracting, and the ongoing need for infrastructure projects. It’s not explosive growth like in San Francisco, but it’s reliable.

To understand where you might fit in, here’s a typical experience-level breakdown for the region:

Experience Level	Typical Title	Estimated Salary Range
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	Project Coordinator, Junior PM	$75,000 - $90,000
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	Project Manager	$95,000 - $120,000
Senior (8-12 yrs)	Senior PM, Program Manager	$120,000 - $145,000
Expert (12+ yrs)	Director of PMO, Principal PM	$145,000 - $175,000+

Insider Tip: In Simi Valley, the "Expert" level is often found in specialized roles at major employers like Raytheon or in healthcare administration. Salaries above $150,000 typically require PMP certification and deep domain expertise in defense, aerospace, or healthcare IT.

How Simi Valley Compares to Other CA Cities:

• Los Angeles: Higher salaries (median ~$120K) but significantly higher cost of living and brutal commutes.
• San Francisco Bay Area: Median salaries can exceed $140K, but rent is often double Simi Valley's.
• Ventura/Oxnard: Similar cost of living, but slightly lower median salary (~$98K) and fewer corporate headquarters.
• Santa Clarita: Very comparable in all aspects—salary, cost, and job market—often sharing the same employer base.

Simi Valley offers a compelling middle ground: a solid salary without the extreme financial pressure of LA or the Bay.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Earning $105,381/year sounds comfortable, but California’s taxes and the local housing market take a significant cut. Let’s break down a monthly budget for a single Project Manager in Simi Valley.

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Gross Monthly Income: $8,782
• Estimated Taxes (Fed + CA State + FICA): ~$2,450 (28% effective rate)
• Net Monthly Income: ~$6,332
• Average 1BR Rent: $2,213/month (source: Zillow, RentCafe data for Simi Valley)
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, Savings: ~$4,119

This leaves a healthy buffer for a single earner or a dual-income household. However, the Cost of Living Index is 113.5 (US avg = 100), meaning everyday expenses (groceries, utilities, transportation) are about 13.5% higher than the national average.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
The median home price in Simi Valley is approximately $750,000. With a 20% down payment ($150,000), a 30-year mortgage at 7% interest would result in a monthly payment of around $3,400 (including property taxes and insurance). This would consume over half of your net take-home pay, which is generally not recommended. For a Project Manager earning the median, buying a home alone is a stretch in Simi Valley. It becomes feasible with a dual income, a larger down payment, or moving to a slightly less expensive neighboring area like Thousand Oaks or Moorpark.

Where the Jobs Are: Simi Valley's Major Employers

Simi Valley’s job market is anchored by a mix of defense, healthcare, and established tech firms. Unlike many suburbs, it has a significant base of local headquarters and regional offices.

1. Raytheon Technologies (El Segundo & nearby): While not in Simi Valley proper, it's the largest employer for residents. They heavily recruit Project Managers for defense and aerospace projects. Hiring Trend: Steady, with a focus on security-cleared PMs for government contracts.
2. Amgen (Thousand Oaks): A 15-minute drive away, this biotech giant is a massive employer for PMs in R&D, clinical trials, and IT. Hiring Trend: Strong growth in digital health and manufacturing projects.
3. Simi Valley Hospital (Adventist Health): A major local employer for healthcare PMs managing facility expansions, IT implementations (EHR systems), and community health programs. Hiring Trend: Consistent need for PMs with healthcare certifications (PMP, CPHIMS).
4. PepsiCo (Frito-Lay Division): Has a significant distribution and operations center in the region. They hire operations and supply chain project managers. Hiring Trend: Focus on logistics automation and sustainability projects.
5. City of Simi Valley & Ventura County Government: Public sector projects in infrastructure, parks, and public safety. Hiring Trend: Stable, with periodic hiring surges for capital improvement projects (e.g., road repairs, library upgrades).
6. Tech Startups & Mid-Size Firms: A growing cluster in the "Simi Valley Tech Park" and near the 118 freeway. Companies like Amphenol (connectors) and Teradyne (semiconductor test) have local offices. Hiring Trend: Niche but growing, especially in hardware engineering and manufacturing PM roles.

Insider Tip: The "hidden" job market is strong here. Many PM roles at Raytheon and Amphenol are filled through LinkedIn and employee referrals before hitting job boards. Join the "Ventura County Project Management Institute (PMI) Chapter" for networking.

Getting Licensed in CA

California does not require a state-specific license to practice as a Project Manager, unlike fields like architecture or engineering. However, professional certifications are the de facto standard for career advancement.

• PMP (Project Management Professional): The gold standard. Issued by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Requires 36 months of leading projects with a bachelor’s degree (or 60 months without) and 35 hours of project management education.
  • Cost: Exam fee is $405 for PMI members, $555 for non-members. Study courses range from $500-$2,000.
  • Timeline: Preparation typically takes 2-4 months of study.
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): Ideal for entry-level candidates. Requires a secondary degree (high school diploma) and 23 hours of project management education.
  • Cost: $225 (member) / $300 (non-member).
  • Timeline: Can be prepared for in 1-2 months.
• State-Specific Note: For PMs in construction, the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires a license if you are managing projects valued over $500 and are the "prime contractor." This is separate from a PM certification and has its own requirements (experience, exam, bonding).

Getting Started: Begin by taking a CAPM prep course to build fundamentals, then gain experience to qualify for the PMP. Local resources include courses at California State University, Channel Islands or online platforms like Coursera.

Best Neighborhoods for Project Managers

Choosing where to live in Simi Valley impacts your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local’s breakdown:

1. Central Simi (East & West of the 118 Freeway):

   • Vibe: The classic suburban heart. Older, established neighborhoods with larger lots. Close to shopping (The Promenade at Westlake), restaurants, and the 118 for commutes.
   • Commute: 5-10 mins to downtown Simi, 45-60 mins to LA (traffic-dependent).
   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $2,200 - $2,400/month.
   • Best For: Those who want walkability to parks and schools.

2. Mountain Gate / Oak Park:

   • Vibe: Upscale, hilly, and quieter. Known for excellent schools (Oak Park Unified) and larger homes. Feels more secluded.
   • Commute: 10-15 mins to the 118, similar LA commute time.
   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $2,300 - $2,600/month (fewer apartments, more condos).
   • Best For: Families or professionals seeking a peaceful, community-oriented environment.

3. Sycamore Village / North Simi:

   • Vibe: More affordable, newer developments (1990s-2000s). Popular with young professionals and first-time homebuyers. Close to the Simi Valley Town Center.
   • Commute: 5-10 mins to the 118.
   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $2,000 - $2,300/month.
   • Best For: Budget-conscious PMs who want a modern apartment without sacrificing access.

4. Community of Wood Ranch:

   • Vibe: Gated, master-planned community with trails and golf courses. Premium living, but can feel isolated from downtown Simi.
   • Commute: 10-15 mins to the 118.
   • 1BR Rent Estimate: $2,400 - $2,800/month.
   • Best For: Senior PMs or executives who prioritize security and amenities.

Insider Tip: Traffic on the 118 freeway is the defining commute factor. Living east of the freeway (toward Wood Ranch) can mean a longer commute to LA but easier access to the 210 freeway. Living west means quicker access to the 101 freeway into the Valley.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Simi Valley, career growth for Project Managers follows two primary paths: Specialization and Management.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Defense/Aerospace (PMP + Security Clearance): Can command a 10-15% premium over the median, pushing senior PMs toward $140,000+.
  • Healthcare (PMP + CPHIMS): Strong demand, with salaries at Amgen and local hospitals often matching or exceeding the median.
  • IT/Software (PMP + Agile/Scrum Cert): Growing niche, especially with local tech firms. Premiums are tied to project scale.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Project Manager → Senior PM → Program Manager: The standard ladder, with more complex, multi-project oversight.
  2. Project Manager → PMO Director: Moving into leadership of the Project Management Office, focusing on methodology, tools, and team development. This is a high-level role often found at Raytheon or Amgen.
  3. Project Manager → Operations/General Manager: Leveraging PM skills to run a business unit or facility, common in manufacturing and distribution (e.g., PepsiCo).

• 10-Year Outlook: With 6% projected growth, the market will remain stable. The biggest changes will come from the adoption of AI in project management tools and the continued expansion of the biotech and defense sectors in the Greater Ventura County area. PMs who upskill in data analytics and hybrid project management (blending Agile and Waterfall) will have the best prospects.

Insider Tip: The most significant career leaps in Simi Valley happen not through job-hopping, but through internal promotion at major employers like Amgen or Raytheon. Building a 5-7 year tenure at one of these firms can be more lucrative than frequent moves.

The Verdict: Is Simi Valley Right for You?

Ultimately, Simi Valley is a strategic choice for Project Managers seeking balance—between career opportunity and quality of life, between a suburban feel and access to a major metro. It’s not a launchpad for a Silicon Valley-style tech career, but it’s an excellent place to build a stable, well-compensated career without the financial and logistical extremes of larger California cities.

Pros	Cons
Median Salary ($105,381) is strong for the cost of living.	Homeownership is challenging on a single median income.
Stable job market with major employers in defense, biotech, and healthcare.	Limited "prestige" compared to LA or SF for certain industries.
Lower crime rate and excellent public schools compared to LA County.	Cultural/entertainment options are more limited; reliant on trips to LA.
Outdoor access to parks, hiking trails, and proximity to beaches.	Traffic on the 118 and 101 freeways can be significant.
Strategic location for commuting to LA or Oxnard.	Less diverse job market outside of core sectors.

Final Recommendation: Simi Valley is an ideal fit for mid-to-senior level Project Managers in healthcare, engineering, or established tech who value a family-friendly environment and a manageable commute. It’s a poor fit for entry-level PMs seeking a high-energy, startup-centric scene or for those whose career goals are tied exclusively to the entertainment or pure software industries. If you can secure a role at one of the major local employers, the math works well for a comfortable life.

FAQs

1. What's the real commute like from Simi Valley to Los Angeles?
Without traffic, it's about 45 minutes. With rush hour traffic (which is most of the time), plan for 60-90 minutes using the 118 to 101 or 210 freeways. Many Simi Valley residents work remotely or have hybrid schedules, making the commute manageable.

2. Is it possible to live in Simi Valley on an entry-level PM salary?
Yes, but budgeting is key. An entry-level salary (~$80K) would mean spending nearly 50% of your net income on a 1BR apartment. A roommate or living in a more affordable neighboring city like Moorpark might be necessary to maintain savings and discretionary spending.

3. How important is a security clearance for jobs in Simi Valley?
For the largest employer, Raytheon, and many contractors, it's extremely valuable. While some jobs are "clearance eligible" (they'll sponsor you), having an active Secret or Top Secret clearance can make you a top candidate and often comes with a salary premium. Start the process early if interested in defense.

4. Are there networking opportunities for Project Managers locally?
Yes. The Ventura County PMI Chapter holds monthly meetings, often in Thousand Oaks or Westlake Village. LinkedIn groups like "Ventura County Professionals" and "Simi Valley Business Network" are also active. For tech PMs, check for events at The Hub at CSUCI.

5. What's the best way to find a Project Manager job in Simi Valley?
For the major employers (Raytheon, Amgen, PepsiCo), apply directly on their career portals. Use LinkedIn with location filters set to "Simi Valley" and "Thousand Oaks." Also, register with local staffing agencies that specialize in engineering and tech, like Aerotek or Kelly Services, which have offices in the Conejo Valley.