Principal Hardware in the Loop Simulation Engineer

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

Job summary

Draper Labs in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Principal Digital Engineering Hardware in the Loop Architect to tackle complex engineering challenges across various domains including defense and aerospace. This role involves leading cross-functional teams and integrating advanced simulation technologies to ensure project success.

The ideal candidate has 7–10 years of Systems Engineering experience and strong skills in C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink. A Master's degree is required, with a PhD preferred. Competitive salary range is $95,000 - $245,000.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Architect, integrate, verify and validate system-level simulations.
• Lead a small team or work independently.
• Develop simulation CONOPs, use cases, and requirements.
• Design simulation architecture and interfaces.
• Write and automate test plans.

Skills

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Experience with analytical methods

Excellent mathematical skills

Ability to collaborate within a diverse team

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Attention to detail

Time management skills

Understanding of software APIs

Debugging and integration skills

Human factors and UI/UX knowledge

Education

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

PhD preferred

Tools

C/C++

MATLAB/Simulink

Linux operating system

RISC-V architectures

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 Digital Engineering and Enabling Technologies Division is seeking a Principal Digital Engineering Hardware in the Loop (HWIL) simulation Architect to apply systems‑thinking and advanced methodologies to developing solutions to complex system‑and enterprise‑level problems. The Division works across multiple domains such as strategic deterrent systems, missile defense systems, hypersonic missiles, space systems, precision guided munitions, and autonomous air/sea vehicles. Draper has adopted an integrated, model‑based, and data‑driven mindset in solving complex engineering problems spanning the entire product lifecycle. From early‑lifecycle problem definition and requirement management, conceptual system design and architecture, detailed modeling, model‑driven customer reviews, integration and testing, verification and validation, to deployment, surveillance and performance monitoring, Draper applies a suite of Digital Engineering solutions to meet the needs of our projects.

Specific responsibilities

• Work with senior leaders across Draper to analyze and capture customer and stakeholder HWIL and simulation needs, understand and evaluate relevant technology options, and apply advanced decision‑making strategies to develop innovative system solutions.
• Maintain strong external presence in the Digital Engineering and simulation world as a thought leader and innovative thinker, understand external trends and map back to Draper needs and new business development.
• Conceptualize and lead the development of the appropriate HWIL solution for each project depending on the lifecycle needs, with a “Product Owner” hat.
• Bridge the knowledge gaps across Draper. Build and promote cross‑functional teams to meet customer and internal needs.
• Lead complex assignments with minimal management direction and evolving task priorities. Mentor technical staff and development teams to successfully work to deadlines, often while successfully managing multiple competing priorities.

Duties / Responsibilities

• Architect, integrate, verify and validate system‑level simulations in the context of a larger aerospace project life cycle.
• May 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 develop new software models.
• Act as a subject matter expert in System Modeling and Simulation engineering.
• Integrate 3D visualization tools.
• Development and maintain an in‑house real‑time software framework.
• Performs 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 with the 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 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 Job Description

• A passion to build quick turn‑around prototypes, demonstrate proof‑of‑concept, and drive to productization.
• Prior experience in technical leadership, stakeholder engagement and management.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other leading national experts in science and technology from academia, national laboratories, and industry who may have ongoing competing priorities and viewpoints.
• Ability to create and present senior level communications for internal and external customers.

Desired Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering and/or Computer Science.
• Experience with Aerospace Avionics development.
• Experience with Hardware in the Loop simulation.
• Knowledge of common Embedded Computing communication interfaces, including serial communications, Ethernet, AXI, RS‑422, etc.
• Experience with Linux operating systems.
• Experience with RISC‑V computer architectures.

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

Job Location

City: Cambridge | State: Massachusetts | Postal Code: 02139‑3563

Compensation

Base salary range: $95,000 - $245,000.

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].