Principal Digital Engineering Data Solutions Systems Engineer

SwiftCruit; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Draper is seeking a Digital Engineering Data Solutions Systems Engineer in the DREAM Group to develop next‑generation requirements and model‑based systems engineering concepts for strategic deterrent, missile defense, hypersonic missiles, space systems, and autonomous vehicles.

Ideal candidates will have a Master's degree (PhD preferred) and 7–10 years of systems engineering experience with C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink, plus strong data architecture, simulation, and cross‑domain collaboration

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field; PhD preferred.
• 7–10 years of systems engineering or related experience.
• Significant experience with C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink.

Responsibilities

• Architect, integrate, verify, and validate system-level simulations within the aerospace lifecycle.
• Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
• Design a simulation architecture with interfaces, facilities, and models.
• Write and automate test plans.
• Develop real-time hardware interfaces and integrate legacy software models.
• Act as a subject-matter expert in system modeling and simulation engineering.
• Integrate 3D visualization tools and maintain in-house real-time software frameworks.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Verbal and written communication

Time management

Ability to learn new software APIs

Debugging and fault isolation

Human factors / UI/UX awareness

Aerospace systems knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Engineering/CS/Math

PhD preferred

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

C/C++

Python

Containerization

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. With multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists, we 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

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 strategic deterrent systems, missile defense systems, hypersonic missiles, space systems, precision‑guided munitions, and autonomous air/sea vehicles. Our interdisciplinary teams innovate and develop solutions for the full system development lifecycle in nationally important areas.

Draper has adopted an integrated, model‑driven digital mindset for solving systems engineering problems across the entire lifecycle—from early‑conceptual design and architecture to detailed modeling, model‑driven reviews, verification & validation, integration & testing, deployment, surveillance, and performance monitoring. This role provides a foundation for growing expertise in data architecture, systems engineering, and advanced computing, with opportunities to contribute to innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

• Architect, integrate, verify, and validate system‑level simulations within the larger aerospace project life cycle.
• Work independently or lead a small team of engineers.
• Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
• Design a 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 create new software models.
• Act as a 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 & Abilities

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

Education

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

Experience

• 7–10 years of systems engineering or related experience.
• Professional software development experience in a multidisciplinary, team setting.
• Significant experience with C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink.

Desired 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 experience in 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.