Junior Simulation Software Engineer

METECS; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

METECS is seeking an entry-level Simulation Software Engineer to support NASA’s simulation efforts within the Robotics, Simulations, and Graphics Support team. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or Physics, and proficiency in C++. Responsibilities include developing simulation software and collaborating with engineering experts.

This role involves working with NASA engineers on core dynamics and simulation tools, ensuring high-quality software and effective teamwork in a modern development environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Experience in simulations or related technical field.
• Proficiency in C++ and Linux-based environments.
• Familiarity with Git for version control.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain high-fidelity simulation software.
• Collaborate closely with experts in various engineering fields.
• Implement features from Git-managed work items and participate in code reviews.

Skills

C++

Linux

Git

Scripting languages (e.g., Python)

Communication skills

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or Physics

Tools

Trick simulation framework

Unity

Unreal Engine

Job description

METECS is seeking an entry-level Simulation Software Engineer to support NASA’s simulation efforts as part of the Robotics, Simulations, and Graphics Support (RSGS) team. This role is ideal for candidates with a strong foundation in computer science and software engineering who are interested in applying those skills to challenging problems in aerospace, robotics, human spaceflight, and physics-based simulation.

In this role, you will contribute to the design, development, integration, testing, and maintenance of high-fidelity simulation software that supports engineering analysis across a wide range of human spaceflight programs, including the International Space Station (ISS), Orion, Moon Base, Space Reactor-1 Freedom (SR-1), Human Landing System (HLS), and other advanced exploration initiatives. Projects may include development and enhancement of core dynamics and simulation tools, investigations of crew member stability in lunar and microgravity environments, lunar vehicle simulations, and support of ISS training simulation systems.

Successful candidates will be active contributors to a modern software development environment. Responsibilities include implementing and maintaining features from Git‑managed work items, participating in peer code reviews, contributing to automated testing efforts, and helping maintain and improve continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) pipelines. Candidates should be comfortable working within large, collaborative codebases and applying software engineering best practices to ensure reliability, maintainability, and performance.

Simulation development at METECS is a highly multidisciplinary effort, requiring close collaboration with experts in software engineering, physics, robotics, biomechanics, computer graphics, and aerospace systems. You will work alongside NASA engineers and mission stakeholders to develop simulation capabilities that are accurate, robust, and relevant to real‑world mission scenarios.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Experience in simulations, software development, or a related technical field.
• Proficiency in C++.
• Experience working in Linux‑based environments.
• Familiarity with Git for version control.
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python.
• Solid foundation in physics and mathematics.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a team‑oriented environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Exposure to AI/ML concepts and applications.
• Understanding of the software development life cycle (SDLC).
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and automated testing.
• Familiarity with the Trick simulation framework.
• Unity, Unreal Engine, EDGE or similar graphics engines.

Citizenship or lawful permanent resident required due to federal position.

About METECS

We are a high‑performance team providing advanced engineering, software, and analysis solutions for human space flight and terrestrial applications. We develop and integrate custom software for NASA and other government and commercial customers utilizing a wide variety of in‑house, commercial, and open‑source technologies. Our specialties include robotics automation, embedded systems, hardware/software integration, multibody dynamics simulations, immersive computer graphics, XR systems and advanced web‑based tools.

METECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.