Principal Guidance & Control Engineer

Draper Labs; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work-life balance

Discounts to local museums

Employee clubs

Job summary

Draper Labs in Cambridge, MA seeks a Principal Guidance and Control Engineer to develop and deploy advanced G&C algorithms for space and defense systems. The role covers embedded software development, algorithm design, and ensuring real-time performance.

You will lead a team of engineers, engage with customers, and contribute to R&D projects. A strong background in aerospace/electrical engineering and 10–15 years of relevant experience is required, with security clearance being preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a related field; Master's/PhD preferred.
• Experience of 10–15 years in engineering roles with leadership exposure.
• Strong MATLAB, Simulink, Python, and C/C++ programming skills.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate requirements and propose design solutions.
• Design algorithms and develop embedded software.
• Test and validate real-time algorithms and software.
• Communicate goals and progress with customers and stakeholders.
• Lead and mentor a team, fostering an inclusive environment.

Skills

MATLAB

Simulink

Python

C/C++

Leadership

Communication

Real-time software

Trajectory optimization

Education

Bachelor's in Aerospace or Electrical Engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Job description

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. 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 able to operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

Job Description

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.
• Guidance & Control Subject Matter Expert with deep understanding of domain and customer mission areas.
• Leads with humility and respect, and fosters an inclusive environment by incorporating diverse perspectives.
• 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 strong written and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of modern software development lifecycles, standards, processes, and tools.
• Clear communication of work assignments to team members.
• Ability to track priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Master's 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

City: Cambridge
State: Massachusetts
Postal Code: 02139-3563

Salary

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $95,000.00 - $245,000.00. 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. The compensation details listed reflect the base salary only and do not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs, health and finance workshops, off-site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now at www.draper.com/careers.

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 provides 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].