If you’re an early-career engineer who enjoys software development, simulation, and solving complex engineering problems, this could be an exciting opportunity to start your career with METECS in Houston, Texas. The Jr. Simulation Software Engineer role offers the chance to work on engineering simulation software, collaborate with experienced professionals, and build practical skills at the intersection of engineering and technology.
Job Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | METECS |
| Role | Jr. Simulation Software Engineer |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field |
| Job Location | Houston, Texas, USA |
| Salary | $70,000–$85,000 per year |
| Work Type | On-site |
| Job Type | Full-time |
| Job Level | Junior / Entry Level |
| Industry | Engineering, Simulation & Software Technology |
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.
Selection Process
- Application Submission – Submit your resume and required application details.
- Resume Screening – The recruiting team reviews your qualifications and experience.
- Initial Interview – Participate in an introductory discussion with the hiring/recruiting team.
- Technical Interview – Discuss your software development, programming, engineering, and simulation knowledge.
- Final Interview – Meet with the hiring team and discuss the role, projects, and expectations.
- Offer & Onboarding – Selected candidates receive an employment offer and proceed with onboarding.
How to Apply
- Visit the official METECS careers or job application page.
- Search for “Jr. Simulation Software Engineer” in Houston, TX.
- Review the job requirements and responsibilities carefully.
- Prepare an updated resume highlighting your engineering, programming, simulation, and relevant project experience.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit your application and required documents.
- If shortlisted, be prepared for the interview and technical evaluation.