Astronomical Instrument Engineer

Draper-1; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 156,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper, a premier nonprofit R&D organization in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a scientist/engineer with expertise in astronomy, optical engineering, or astrophysics to design, test, and integrate precision celestial instruments.

The role involves modeling, CAD/ray tracing, data reduction, and collaboration across engineering teams, with a requirement for a 3–5 year background in hardware instrument engineering and a bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or related fields.

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Understanding of design, development and application of precision instruments.
• Understanding of fabrication processes for precision hardware.
• Strong math and physics foundations.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Applies technical knowledge to instrument domains and learns new skills.
• Analyzes requirements and develops precision instruments with minimal guidance.
• Designs experiments and hardware to test viable concepts.
• Collaborates to design and develop prototype and production hardware.
• Integrates instruments into larger systems to meet performance metrics.
• Drafts technical documents and testing results for approval.
• Provides training related to devices to staff and customers.
• Performs basic independent research and problem-solving.

Skills

Communication

Instruments design

Math & physics

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Mechanical Engineering

Electrical Engineering

Applied Physics

Tools

MATLAB

CAD

FEA

Job description

Overview:Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.Job Description Summary:Draper is conducting a nationwide search for a scientist/engineer with a background in astronomy, optical engineering, optomechanics, or astrophysics and hands-on technical experience with optics-based celestial imaging instruments and astronomy-based data reduction and analysis. The successful applicant can expect to be a part of complex technology development efforts, with important responsibilities including: design, modeling, testing, and use of astronomical observing instruments, celestial sighting demonstrations, lab- and field-based optical instrumentation activities, modeling and simulation (e.g., ray tracing, CAD modeling, etc.), and data reduction and analysis. In addition, the ability to quickly learn on-the-job skills is expected.Job Description:Duties/Responsibilities• Applies technical knowledge to domains related to their area of expertise, and seeks out new technical skills to support program needs.• Analyzes requirements and develops appropriate precision instruments with minimal guidance.• Designs experiments and experimental hardware to prove which design concepts are viable and optimal.• Collaborates with other engineers to design and develop prototype and production hardware to meet the application needs.• Collaborates with other groups to integrate precision instruments into larger systems, delivering on performance metrics.• Develops initial processes for the fabrication of custom designed instruments.• Drafts and presents formal technical documents, reports, and testing results to manager for approval.• Provides training related to devices to employees, sub-contractors and/or customers.• Performs basic independent research and seeks assistance when needed for solving problems.• Contributes content for technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.• Performs other duties as assigned.Skills/Abilities• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.• Understanding of the design, development, and application of a wide variety of instruments.• Understanding of the processes used in the fabrication of precision instrument hardware.• Thorough understanding of applied math and physics.• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.• Proficient with general modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB, computer-aided design (CAD) software, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, and/or other design & analysis tools relevant to your discipline.EducationRequires a bachelors degree in Mechanical, Applied Physics, Electrical or Computer Engineering required; Masters or PhD degree preferred.ExperienceRequires 3-5 years of experience in Hardware Instrument Engineering or related.Additional Job Description:Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret clearance is preferred.Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.Job Location - City:CambridgeJob Location - State:MassachusettsJob Location - Postal Code:02139-3563The US base salary range for this full-time position is$75,000.00 - $156,000.00Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].