Principal Guidance & Control Engineer

Draper; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Work-life balance programs

Employee clubs

Health and finance workshops

Job summary

Draper is seeking a Principal Guidance and Control Engineer in Boston, MA, to develop software for cutting-edge space and defense systems. This role involves evaluating requirements and designing advanced algorithms for systems operating in complex environments.

The ideal candidate will have 10-15 years of engineering experience and a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Electrical Engineering. It offers an impressive salary range of $95,000 – $245,000 and benefits focused on work-life balance.

Qualifications

• 10–15 years of relevant Engineering experience.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong MATLAB and Simulink skills.

Responsibilities

• Develops software for space and defense systems.
• Designs algorithms based on modern theory.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders.

Skills

MATLAB

Simulink

Python

C/C++

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Team management

Real-time software development

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering or related

Master's or PhD in a related field

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

The Principal Guidance and Control Engineer develops software for cutting‑edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers, as well as internal R&D projects. A Guidance and Control (G&C) Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced G&C algorithms and software for systems that operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

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.
• Acts as Guidance & Control Subject Matter Expert with a deep understanding of domain and customer mission areas.
• Leads with humility and respect, encouraging diverse perspectives to foster an inclusive environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities

• Strong MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of real‑time software development tools.
• Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real‑time algorithms and software.
• Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to motivate and develop a team of professionals.
• Excellent technical judgment and a practical, common‑sense approach to getting things done.
• Knowledge of modern software development lifecycles, standards, processes, and tools.
• 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

10–15 years of relevant Engineering 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 preferred.

Job Location

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139‑3563

Salary

U.S. base salary range for this full‑time position is $95,000 – $245,000.

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].