Terramechanics Engineer

METECS; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

METECS in Houston seeks a Terramechanics Engineer for lunar exploration projects. The role involves high-fidelity modeling and simulation of lunar terrain, with responsibilities including the development of terrain interaction models and integration into simulation frameworks. Candidates should possess a Master's degree in a relevant field and strong skills in C/C++, Python, and data analysis. A deep understanding of terramechanics principles is essential, as well as an ability to communicate technical details clearly. Join us in supporting sustained human presence on the lunar surface.

Qualifications

• Strong grounding in classical terramechanics.
• Experience developing or applying physics-based models.
• Clear technical communication and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply terrain and soil interaction models.
• Integrate soil and contact models into simulation frameworks.
• Conduct uncertainty quantification and model calibration.

Skills

C/C++

Python

Data analysis

Terramechanics principles

Physics-based modeling

Education

Master’s or advanced degree in mechanical/aerospace engineering or related field

Tools

NASA’s Trick

Job description

METECS is seeking a Terramechanics Engineer who is excited about lunar exploration to support high‑fidelity modeling and simulation of lunar terrain. This role emphasizes physics‑based approaches to soil‑structure interaction, ranging from continuum and discrete element methods to semi‑empirical terramechanics models. This position also includes the use of multi‑body dynamics and simulation frameworks for analysis, design, and validation.

The ideal candidate brings a strong grounding in classical terramechanics and an interest in advancing higher‑fidelity modeling approaches to soil–structure interaction in extreme environments. We are looking for someone who is driven, curious, and motivated to contribute directly to the technologies that will support sustained human presence on the lunar surface.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and apply terrain and soil interaction models within coupled multi‑body dynamics simulations.
• Work with higher‑fidelity modeling approaches such as continuum mechanics (e.g., SPH‑based methods) and/or discrete element method (DEM) simulations to model granular and deformable terrain behavior.
• Maintain and apply semi‑empirical terramechanics models (e.g., Bekker‑type formulations) as baselines, validation references, or computationally efficient tools.
• Extend terrain interaction models to support deformable or conformable contact elements, including tires or other compliant structures.
• Integrate soil and contact models into simulation frameworks and workflows, including NASA’s Trick environment or similar tools.
• Perform simulation validation through comparison with experimental data, test results, or field measurements.
• Conduct uncertainty quantification, sensitivity analyses, and model calibration to assess prediction robustness.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to interpret results, communicate model assumptions and limitations, and inform system‑level decisions.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s or advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, applied physics, or a closely related technical field.
• Working knowledge of foundational terramechanics principles, including Bekker‑type soil–vehicle interaction theories.
• Proficiency in C/C++ and Python for scientific computing, simulation development, and analysis.
• Strong data‑analysis skills, including experience working with simulation and experimental datasets.
• Experience developing or applying physics‑based models within a simulation environment.
• Clear technical communication and documentation skills.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with continuum mechanics‑based modeling approaches (e.g., SPH or related methods).
• Experience with discrete element method (DEM) simulations or granular material modeling.
• Familiarity with deformable or compliant contact modeling (e.g., tires, tracks, or soft structures).
• Familiarity with NASA’s Trick simulation framework or similar simulation infrastructures.
• Experience with coupled multi‑body dynamics and soil–terrain interaction simulations.
• Background in simulation validation, uncertainty quantification, or model verification.
• Experience in aerospace, robotics, off‑road vehicle dynamics, or related terrain‑interaction domains.

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.