Junior Simulation Software Engineer

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Develop and enhance core dynamics and simulation tools.
• Investigate crew member stability in lunar and microgravity environments.
• Develop lunar vehicle simulations.
• Support ISS training simulation systems.
• Implement and maintain features from Git-managed work items.
• Participate in peer code reviews.
• Contribute to automated testing efforts.
• Help maintain and improve continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) pipelines.
• Work alongside NASA engineers and mission stakeholders to develop simulation capabilities that are accurate, robust, and relevant to real-world mission scenarios.

Requirements

• 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.

Qualifications

• Citizenship or lawful permanent resident required due to federal position.

Skills

• 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.

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.

Benefits

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