MEMS Design & Analysis Engineer

Draper; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 275,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper, a renowned nonprofit R&D company based in Cambridge, MA, is seeking a Senior MEMS Design & Analysis Engineer. This role involves designing innovative microsystem devices, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and contributing to proposals.

The ideal candidate should have 5-10 years of experience in MEMS design and be proficient with simulation tools like COMSOL and MATLAB. The salary range is $75,000 to $275,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of microsystems engineering or related experience.
• Experience in MEMS sensor design, analysis, fabrication, and testing.
• Familiarity with inertial guidance, magnetic sensing, or microfluidics.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop microelectromechanical devices and sensors.
• Model multi-physics devices using modern simulation tools.
• Collaborate with teams to define needs and manage projects.

Skills

Verbal communication skills

Organizational skills

Time-management skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Fabrication knowledge

Software proficiency for design

Statistical process control

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

COMSOL

Ansys

MATLAB/Simulink

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.

Job Description Summary

In this senior level MEMS Design & Analysis Engineering role, you will develop innovative solutions to complex problems by designing novel microsystem devices that integrate precision sensors, actuators, optics, and/or novel materials. You will work cross‑functionally, contributing to existing programs and helping develop innovative concepts and competitive proposals.

We are looking for someone with experience in MEMS sensor design, analysis, fabrication, and/or test, willing to venture into new and unexplored areas. Experience in inertial guidance, magnetic sensing, microfluidic systems, biomedical devices, thermoelectric, microelectronics, radiation physics, and related topics is beneficial, though not required.

Responsibilities

• Work effectively in a team environment and communicate progress through reports and presentations.
• Develop detailed physics‑based models of devices to be validated with laboratory testing.
• Model multi‑physics devices and systems using modern commercial simulation tools (COMSOL, Ansys, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Leverage novel MEMS device development, nuclear physics, materials, optics, and related technologies to solve complex systems problems.
• Handle MEMS development troubleshooting, verification, and validation.
• Collaborate with program leaders and customers to define needs/requirements, write proposals, and manage technical teams.

• Design and develop microelectromechanical devices/sensors, schematics, and physical layouts of integrated MEMS components or packaged assemblies.
• Assess performance and process capabilities of potential MEMS device designs using modeling or simulation software.
• Test and evaluate devices using a variety of tools, protocols, and software.
• Analyze and address issues such as reliability, yield improvement, and/or failure.
• Develop production methods and fabrication processes for MEMS.
• Draft documentation such as operating instructions, performance specifications, and manuals.
• Share performance experience and operating characteristics with designers or other engineers for new product development or training.
• Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
• Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction, contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
• Provide insight and suggest design or process modifications based on quantitative data or results.
• Identify program/system‑level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
• Mentor less experienced engineers and provide constructive feedback.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time‑management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficient with fabrication and metrology tools and instrumentation related to MEMS component fabrication.
• Proficient with software tools and systems used for device design, modeling, and performance testing.
• Proficient with software tools and systems used for statistical process control, reliability, and failure analysis, including yield improvement.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics required. Master’s degree preferred.

Experience

5–10 years of microsystems engineering or related experience.

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

US base salary range for this full‑time position: $75,000.00 – $275,000.00

Legal Notice

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].