Navigation Analyst

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

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible workplace

Employee clubs (photography, yoga)

Health and finance workshops

Discounts for local events

Job summary

A research and development organization is seeking a Software Engineer in Cambridge, MA. This role involves evaluating design requirements, developing algorithms, and creating embedded software while ensuring compliance with performance standards. Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's in a related field, 3–5 years of experience, and proficient skills in MATLAB, Python, and GNC technology. Work supports national challenges across various sectors, promising a collaborative and innovative atmosphere.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of Software Engineering or related experience required.
• Foundational knowledge in GNC technology is a must.
• Ability to evaluate requirements and propose innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate requirements and propose design solutions.
• Design and implement algorithms and embedded software.
• Analyze designs for performance and compliance, and develop tests.

Skills

MATLAB

Simulink

Python

C/C++

Analytical skills

Communication

GNC technology

Real-time software development

Control systems theory

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field

Masters or PhD in related field

Job description

Job Description Summary

This position is within the esteemed GN&C Analysis software and algorithms group, a core Draper capability and competency. This position provides end-to-end system lifecycle support with analysis informing concept development, system design, and validation.

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees 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.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design.
• 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 establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficiencies or problems.
• Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables.
• Contributes content for technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
• Participates in tag‑ups and informal meetings with group leads and colleagues.
• Derives task‑level or component‑level requirements from system requirements.
• Independently contributes high‑quality content for technical reports and presentations which shows an understanding of the task and an awareness of the intended audience.
• Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities

• Proficient in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ or other related tools.
• Proficient in basic software development standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Foundational knowledge of autonomy, guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) technology.
• Knowledge of real‑time software development tools.
• Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real‑time algorithms and software.
• Strong background in control systems theory.
• Contributes content for technical reports and presentations with appropriate guidance.
• Written and verbal communication is clear and concise.
• Participates in tag‑ups and informal meetings with group leads and colleagues.
• Derives task‑level or component‑level requirements from system requirements.
• Clearly communicates work assignments to team members.
• Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred.

Experience

• 3‑5 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required.

Additional Job Description

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

Location

• Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139‑3563

Salary

The US base salary range for this full‑time position is $75,000.00 - $156,000.00. 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 do not include bonuses or benefits.

Benefits

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.

EEO 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].