Flight Software Engineer

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 62,500 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Workplace flexibility

Health and finance workshops

Discounts to local museums

Job summary

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. is looking for a Software Engineer 1 to join their team in Cambridge, Massachusetts. In this role, you'll tackle national challenges in defense, space, and biomedical engineering, working on embedded software development based on prototype algorithms and engaging in the full software lifecycle.

Ideal candidates are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field and possess 0-3 years of experience in software engineering. A government security clearance is preferred. The salary range for this position is between $62,500 and $140,000.

Qualifications

• 0–3 years experience in Software Engineering or related fields.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Communicates with customers to establish requirements.

Skills

Embedded systems development

C/C++ programming

Troubleshooting skills

Real-time systems software

UML/SysML experience

Knowledge of IP protocols

Excellent communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Software configuration management tools

In-circuit emulators

JTAG debuggers

Laboratory test equipment

Job description

Software Engineer 1

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. We tackle important national challenges across defense, space, and biomedical engineering, delivering successful and usable solutions.

Duties / Responsibilities

• Executes assignments under program leadership oversight.
• Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades, and supports design guidance.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Analyzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develops and executes software tests to check compliance with requirements.
• Evaluates results to identify problem causes and develop solutions.
• Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe design and deliverables.
• Contributes content for technical reports and presentations with guidance.
• Adapts appropriately to changes in program requirements.
• Identifies challenges and communicates them to project leadership.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills / Abilities

• Excellent development and troubleshooting skills on embedded targets.
• Strong knowledge of OS coding techniques, IP protocols, interfaces, and hardware subsystems.
• Expertise in software development for real‑time systems.
• Mastery of high‑level development languages (e.g., C/C++, Rust).
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Knowledge of software configuration management tools, defect tracking tools, and peer review processes.
• Excellent time‑management skills and proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with UML/SysML.
• Experience with in‑circuit emulators, JTAG debuggers, and laboratory test equipment.

Education

Requires a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.

Experience

0–3 years experience in Software Engineering or related fields.

Security Clearance

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret clearance is preferred.

Location

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139‑3563, United States.

Salary Range

$62,500.00 – $140,000.00.

Benefits

Draper supports many programs to improve work‑life balance, including workplace flexibility, employee clubs, health and finance workshops, off‑site social events, and discounts to local museums and cultural activities.

EEO Statement

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. 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. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].