Terramechanics Engineer

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-fidelitymodeling approaches to soilstructure 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 applyterrain and soil interaction models within coupled multi-body dynamics simulations.
• Workwith 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.
• Maintainand applysemi-empirical terramechanics models (e.g. Bekker-type formulations) as baselines validation references or computationally efficient tools.
• Extendterrain 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 NASAs Trick environment or similar tools.
• Perform simulation validation through comparison with experimental data test results or field measurements.
• Conductuncertainty 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.

• Mastersor advanced degreein mechanical engineering aerospace engineering applied physics or a closely related technical field.
• Working knowledge of foundational terramechanics principles including Bekker-type soilvehicle 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.

• Experience with continuum mechanicsbased 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 NASAs Trick simulation framework or similar simulation infrastructures.
• Experience with coupled multi-body dynamics and soilterrain 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.