Principal Digital Engineering Data Solutions Systems Engineer

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper is seeking a Digital Engineering Data Solutions Systems Engineer in Huntsville, AL to advance next‑gen model-based systems engineering and cross‑domain solutions for aerospace projects. The role involves developing simulations, architectures, and real‑time interfaces within a multidisciplinary team.

Requirements include 7–10 years in Systems Engineering with strong C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink, plus Python and data visualization skills.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field; PhD preferred.
• 7–10 years of Systems Engineering or related experience with professional software development.
• Strong C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink experience; knowledge of Python and data visualization.

Responsibilities

• Architect, integrate, verify and validate system-level simulations within aerospace project life cycle.
• Lead a small team of engineers or work independently on projects.
• Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
• Design simulation architecture and interfaces to satisfy requirements.
• Develop real-time hardware interfaces and integrate legacy models.
• Serve as subject matter expert in System Modeling and Simulation engineering.
• Integrate 3D visualization tools and maintain in-house real-time software framework.

Skills

C/C++

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

Data visualization

System Modeling

Communication

Team leadership

UI/UX usability

Education

Master's degree in Engineering/CS/Math

PhD preferred

Tools

Containerization

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

The Data Retrieval, Engineering, Architecture, and Management (DREAM) Group at Draper is seeking a Digital Engineering Data Solutions Systems Engineer to develop next generation requirements, model based systems engineering concepts, and cross‑domain solutions for domains such as strategic deterrent systems, missile defense systems, hypersonic missiles, space systems, precision guided munitions, and autonomous air/sea vehicles.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Architect, integrate, verify and validate system‑level simulations in the context of a larger aerospace project life cycle.
• Work independently or lead a small team of engineers.
• Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
• Design simulation architecture, including internal and external interfaces, facilities, infrastructure, and models, to satisfy requirements.
• Write and automate test plans.
• Develop real‑time hardware interfaces, integrate legacy software models, and develop new software models.
• Serve as subject matter expert in System Modeling and Simulation engineering.
• Integrate 3D visualization tools.
• Develop and maintain an in‑house real‑time software framework.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience with analytical methods, approaches, and data visualization.
• Excellent mathematical skills.
• Collaborate within a diverse and multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time‑management skills with proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Quickly understand and integrate new software APIs.
• Triage, debug, and fix software and hardware integration issues efficiently.
• Develop systems with human factors, UI/UX, usability requirements.
• Knowledge and familiarity with aerospace systems and related sciences.

Education

Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field. PhD preferred.

Experience

7–10 years of Systems Engineering or related experience. Professional software development experience in a multi‑disciplinary, team setting. Significant experience with C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink.

Additional Qualifications

• Prior experience in Model Based Systems Engineering and Requirements Development; certifications are a plus.
• Prior experience in technical leadership.
• Experience with Python and containerization.
• 2–4 years of Model Based Systems Engineering using sound Systems Engineering principles.
• Support the integration and management of diverse data sources across project areas.
• Assist in creating, analyzing, and presenting technical data, software, and models to support system analysis, performance assessments, and decision‑making.
• Experience with various types of data, data states, frequency, volume.
• Knowledge and interest in interdisciplinary work spanning Systems Engineering, Machine Learning, Database Administration, and Data Science.
• Applicants required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance; Secret Clearance preferred.

Location and Compensation

Location: Huntsville, Alabama 35806. Base salary range: $95,000.00 – $245,000.00, depending on role, level and experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity 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, its services, programs, and activities.