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Contractual Discrete Element Method Jobs (NOW HIRING)

METECS

Terramechanics Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

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 ...

New Jersey Institute of Technology

$63K/yr

Be the main point of contact (POC) for all mathematical modeling and computational methods ... Experience in discrete element model (DEM). Experience and interest in related experiments is a ...

Mondelez International

Discrete element method: Rocky DEM, EDEM * Extended realities (AR/VR) for visualization * Computer-aided design: Fusion 360, SolidWorks Technical Rigor * Strong analytical problem-solving mindset ...

Mondelez International

$16 - $21.25/hr

Computational Fluid Dynamics, Finite Element Analysis, Discrete Element Methods, Discrete Event Simulations, Process Modelling, Molecular Dynamics or Reaction Kinetics Modelling, Artificial ...

Mondelez International

NJ · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Computational Fluid Dynamics, Finite Element Analysis, Discrete Element Methods, Discrete Event Simulations, Process Modelling, Molecular Dynamics or Reaction Kinetics Modelling, Artificial ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Aerospace Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience with modeling and simulation with discrete element method (DEM) and granular flow physics using DEM frameworks such as LAMMPS or CFDEMcoupling * Experience with modeling plasma and dust ...

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Aerospace Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience with modeling and simulation with discrete element method (DEM) and granular flow physics using DEM frameworks such as LAMMPS or CFDEMcoupling * Experience with modeling plasma and dust ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Aerospace Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Experience with modeling and simulation with discrete element method (DEM) and granular flow physics using DEM frameworks such as LAMMPS or CFDEMcoupling * Experience with modeling plasma and dust ...

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How much do contractual discrete element method jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual discrete element method in the United States is $116,479.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,500.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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Contractual Discrete Element Method jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractual Discrete Element Method job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,479 per year, or $56 per hour.

Terramechanics Engineer

Houston, TX • On-site

METECS
Scientific Research and Development Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about METECSexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Key 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 and discrete element method simulations to model granular and deformable terrain behavior.

  • Perform simulation validation through comparison with experimental data, test results, or field measurements.

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.

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