Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Draper; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 62,500 - 237,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Workplace flexibility

Employee clubs and workshops

Discounts to local museums

Job summary

A nonprofit research and development company in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to develop innovative solutions for complex design problems. The role involves full-cycle mechanical design, from concept exploration to prototyping and testing. Candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, possess strong analytical skills, and have 3-5 years of relevant experience. The organization offers a supportive work environment that values work-life balance and provides various employee benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant field required.
• 3-5 years experience in mechanical design with a bachelor's degree.
• 0-3 years experience with a master's degree.

Responsibilities

• Perform mechanical design concept exploration and prototyping.
• Help define design approach and execute tasks independently.
• Contribute to technical reports and presentations.

Skills

Curiosity-driven approach

Effective communication

Team player

Ability to balance tasks

Understanding of applied math and physics

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Proficiency with modeling/simulation tools

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

MATLAB

CAD software

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 Mechanical Engineers develop novel solutions to customer‑driven problems including ruggedized miniature electro‑mechanical systems, systems for harsh environments (e.g. high‑g, high temperature, high vibration), dynamic mechanisms, and autonomous systems. The mechanical design team is responsible for the full cycle of mechanical design from concept exploration of multiple potential solutions through trade‑study analysis, down‑selection, prototyping and testing, and finally delivery. The mechanical design engineers work to solve some of our nation's most challenging problems.

Job Description

• Performs mechanical design concept exploration, trade‑study analysis, down‑selection, prototyping, and testing with minimal guidance from group leader.
• Help define the design approach for a particular problem and independently execute assignments.
• Contribute high quality content for technical reports and presentations with minimal guidance.
• Proactively identify needs and concerns associated with design decisions and communicate them to project leadership.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills / Abilities

• Curiosity‑driven approach to solving complex, customer‑driven problems as part of a multi‑disciplinary team.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively and openly with multi‑disciplinary program team members, program leadership, and non‑technical personnel.
• Team player able to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to balance multiple competing tasks and demands.
• 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, and/or other design & analysis tools relevant to your discipline.

Education

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant field. Master’s degree is preferred.

Experience

Requires 3-5 years with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or full cycle of mechanical design experience. 0-3 years experience with a master’s degree.

Additional Job Description

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

Job Location

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139-3563

Salary

The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $62,500.00 – $237,500.00. Our 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.

Work‑Life Balance & Benefits

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 at www.draper.com/careers.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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].